Future Status of Puerto Rico: Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy.

摘要

This thesis discusses the evolution of U.S.-Puerto Rican relations and the current drive to permanently define the island's political status. It analyzes the pros and cons of the three status options (statehood, independence, and enhanced commonwealth) in terms of U.S. national interest. It argues that the status selected will have significant implications for the U.S. interests, especially in the military (Caribbean security and the war on drugs) and economic spheres. The thesis examines the historical and present day influence of the U.S. Congress on Puerto Rico's political status. In so doing it indicates what dominant national interest will most likely effect the outcome of a status plebiscite. It concludes that the most desirable status option for the United States and the Caribbean is the enhanced commonwealth status. However, Congress should approve a binding plebiscite only when Puerto Ricans have expressed a clear consensus for any particular option (no less than 60 percent). Until then, the status quo remains a flexible, viable position.