The Helms-Burton Act: A Strategic Critique.

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: ADA345000 | Open PDF

Abstract:

The 1996 Helms-Burton Act the Act codifies and expands U.S. economic sanctions, including a comprehensive embargo, against Cuba. The primary strategic objective behind the Act is the overthrow of Fidel Castro and the establishment of a democratic transition government in Cuba. In spite of U.S. sanctions, recent events confirm the commonly held belief that Castros government will not fall in the near-or mid-term. Consequently, the Act is fatally flawed because its primary strategic objective is unrealistic. The United States should replace the Helms-Burton Act with a diplomatic strategy managed by the Executive Branch in consultation with Congress. This diplomatic strategy should focus on developing economic and domestic conditions within Cuba favorable for a post-Castro transition to democracy rather than on the immediate, and highly unlikely, downfall of Castro.

Author(s):
Scharfen, J. R.
Author Organization(s):
ARMY WAR COLL CARLISLE BARRACKS PA
Descriptive Note:
Research rept.,
Supplementary Note:
DOI: 10.21236/ADA345000
Pagination:
0043

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Monitor Series:
USAWC
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_5.3.3_Develop Strategy; JCA_2.1_Planning and Direction; JCA_2.1.2_Develop Strategies; JCA_1.3.1_Personnel and Family Support; JCA_1.2.3_Educating
Communities of Interest:
Energy and Power Technologies
Descriptor(s):
*FOREIGN POLICY, *STRATEGY, *CUBA, CONGRESS, UNITED STATES, ECONOMICS, TRANSITIONS, DOMESTIC, DEMOCRACY
Field(s)/Group(s):
Government and Political Science
Keyword(s):
HELMS BURTON ACT (1996)
Report Date:
1998 Mar 31
Creation Date:
1998 Jun 10