Is There a Transition to Democracy in El Salvador?

This timely book explores to what degree democracy has taken root in El Salvador, and to what extent the country can strengthen democratic, civilian-controlled government institutions.

The authors highlight a number of key questions: Does the electoral process allow for a fair and impartial reflection of the popular will? Is U.S. policy aiding the cause of democracy—or strengthening an all-powerful military? And can peace last without progress on human rights and economic growth that ameliorates the country's widespread poverty?

• Preface—the Editors.
• EL SALVADOR AFTER THE MARCH 1991 ELECTIONS.
• Elections and the Road to Peace—T. Gibb.
• The Political Reality After Eleven Years of War—G.R. Vickers.
• Commentary—J. McAward.
• Discussion.
• THE UNITED STATES AND DEMOCRACY IN EL SALVADOR.
• The Role of U.S. Policy—B.W. Aronson.
• Commentary—H. Foote.
• Discussion.
• THE TRANSITION TO DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT: THREE KEY ISSUES.
• Human Rights: Has There Been Progress?—C.J. Arnson.
• The Tanda System and Institutional Autonomy of the Military—J.Z. Garcia.
• The State of the Economy—R.M. Meza.
• Commentary—E. Baloyra.
• Discussion.
• THE PROSPECTS FOR PEACE.
• The Negotiations Following the New York Agreement—A. de Soto.
• Discussion.
• CONCLUSION.
• Assessing the Transition to Democracy—G. Bland.