Caracas Fracas

Fifty years ago Teddy Roosevelt backed the Monroe Doctrine with the United States Marines. This afternoon, secretary of state dulles will have to sell the principles of the Doctrine without using the "big stick." In backing his strongly worded anti-communist resolution, he must try to convince the representatives at the Inter-American conference that strong measures are necessary for hemispheric security. The delegates, however, after studying an early release of the proposal, have indicated a general disapproval.

Their objections arise both from fears of United Sates intervention in their internal affairs, and from a disbelief that Communism is really a threat to the Western Hemisphere. But the United States could stifle these objections. By using economic aid as a lever, it could force the delegates to pass the resolution as put forth. Suth pressure, however, would embitter the latin-American nations, and defeat any hope for increased cooperation.

On the other hand, now that he is committed, Dulles cannot abandon his proposal without losing international prestige. He must attempt to push it through, arousing as little ill-will as possible. If necessary, Dulles should allow the delegates to amend the wording of the resolution toward their more moderate outlook. The United States will appear less the Hemispheric dictator, and chances of quickly concluding this phase of the conference will improve. For it is in the best interests of the United states to begin discussion of economic problems.

In this area, where Latin American interest in intense, the Conference may produce tangible results. Sincere United states efforts to improve the economies of Latin nations will not only eliminate mistrust, but also help remove the breeding grounds of communism. In countries with backward economies communism has its greatest appeal. By bolstering its American allies, the United states can help safeguard the hemisphere from this threat. but economic cooperation will remain only a hope unless the present issue is settled and the air cleared for concerted action.