The Social Communication Law as a Sociocultural Process of Exchange, Information, and Interpretation of Reality

Abstract

Introduction: Communication is a sociocultural process that articulates exchange, information, and interpretation of reality. In Cuba, the enactment of Law No. 162 on Social Communication (2023) represents a milestone in institutionalizing this phenomenon, recognizing it as a citizen’s right and a strategic tool for social development. This article analyzes the law from an academic perspective, linking its principles with classical and contemporary communication theories. Materials and Methods: A qualitative, documentary, and theoretical methodology was applied. Legal texts, academic literature, and contributions from authors such as Shannon, Berlo, McQuail, Jenkins, Freire, Waisbord, and Giddens were reviewed. Content analysis identified central categories—exchange, information, and interpretation of reality—relating them to the Cuban regulatory framework. Discussion: Results show that the law guarantees interaction between institutions and citizens, ensures access to truthful information, and fosters critical construction of meaning. Compared with theoretical models, the law reflects noise reduction (Shannon & Weaver), the importance of attitudes and knowledge (Berlo), the social role of communicators (McQuail), cultural convergence and citizen participation (Jenkins), dialogical and critical approaches (Freire), scientific legitimacy (Waisbord), and the connection between local and global contexts (Giddens). Conclusions: Law No. 162 is not merely a legal instrument but a sociocultural process that regulates, educates, and transforms. Its practical application in health, education, and environmental campaigns demonstrates that communication is a tool for professional action and citizenship building in contemporary Cuban society.