Financial Crime World

Cuba Compliance and Ethics Training Programs Face Unique Challenges

Introduction

A recent conference at the Andreas School of Business, Barry University, brought together experts to discuss the legal, ethical, and compliance challenges of doing business in Cuba. The event highlighted the complexities faced by companies seeking to establish a presence in the island nation.

Opening Remarks

The conference opened with remarks from Joseph M. Centorino, Executive Director of the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust; Sister Linda Bevilacqua, President of Barry University; and Dean Tomislav Mandakovic, Ph.D., D.B.A., from the Andreas School of Business.

Ethical Challenges in Cuba

Professor Marcia Narine Weldon, Esq., Assistant Professor of Law at St. Thomas University School of Law, provided an overview of the ethical challenges presented in Cuba. She emphasized the importance of understanding the complexities of doing business in a country with a unique legal and cultural landscape.

Panel Discussion: Should Companies Engage in Business with Cuba?

A panel discussion followed, featuring experts who explored the question of whether companies should engage in business with Cuba, given the country’s complex political landscape and potential ethical dilemmas.

Doing Business in Cuba: Local Political and Ethical Perspectives

The second panel discussion focused on “Doing Business in Cuba: Local Political and Ethical Perspectives and a Look to the Future.” Moderated by Professor Sean Foreman, Ph.D., Professor of Political Science at Barry University, the panel featured:

  • Hon. Juan Carlos Bermudez, Mayor of Doral
  • Hon. Jim Cason, Mayor of Coral Gables
  • Hon. Philip Levine, Mayor of Miami Beach
  • Dr. Jose Azel

Keynote Address: Unique Ethical Challenges in Cuba

John Kavulich, President of the U.S.-Cuba Trade and Economic Council, Inc., and editor of the Economic Eye on Cuba, delivered a keynote address comparing Cuba with other countries, highlighting the unique ethical challenges presented by doing business in Cuba.

Panel Discussion: How to Do Business in Cuba Legally and Ethically

The third panel discussion focused on “How to Do Business in Cuba Legally and Ethically.” Moderated by Richard Montes de Oca, Esq., MDO Partners, the panel featured:

  • Pedro Freyre, Esq., Akerman LLP
  • Arnaldo Perez, Esq., General Counsel, Carnival Cruise Lines
  • Peter Quinter, Esq., Gray Robinson P.A.
  • Stephen Zack, Esq., Boies Schiller Flexner LLP

Final Panel Discussion: Ethical and Compliance Dilemmas Presented in Cuba

The final panel discussion explored “Ethical and Compliance Dilemmas Presented in Cuba.” Moderated by Professor Marcia Narine Weldon, the panel featured:

  • Andres Fernandez, Esq., Holland and Knight LLP
  • Yosbel Ibarra, Esq., Greenberg Traurig LLP
  • Augusto Maxwell, Esq., Akerman LLP
  • Rebekah Poston, Esq., Squire Patton Boggs

Conclusion

The conference highlighted the need for companies to develop comprehensive compliance and ethics training programs when doing business in Cuba. The unique challenges presented by the country’s complex political landscape require a nuanced understanding of local laws and customs.