Resolution to End the Monroe Doctrine in U.S. Foreign Relations with Latin America Presented by House Progressives

Progressive Democrats in the House Push for End of Monroe Doctrine in U.S. Foreign Relations with Latin America

In a bold move, Progressive Democrats in the House have issued a resolution calling for the official end of the Monroe Doctrine in the United States’s foreign relations with Latin America. The resolution, presented by Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez and Congressman Greg Casar, aims to break away from the long history of U.S. military and political interventions in the Western Hemisphere.

The Monroe Doctrine, first presented by President James Monroe in 1823, justified U.S. interventions in the Western Hemisphere to prevent European colonization. However, over the years, the doctrine has been used to justify military interventions, coups, and human rights violations in Latin America.

Congressman Casar emphasized the need for a new approach, stating, “U.S. foreign policy has too often contributed to instability in Latin America. Instead of toppling duly elected governments, we can support democracy, grow our economies, and reduce forced migration. We can begin charting this new way forward by eliminating the outdated Monroe Doctrine.”

The proposed resolution calls for the development of a ‘New Good Neighbor’ policy to foster improved relations and deeper cooperation between the United States and the rest of the Western Hemisphere. It also seeks to reform international financial institutions and promote the declassification of U.S. government archives related to past coups and human rights violations in the region.

The push to end the Monroe Doctrine comes after a visit by a Congressional delegation to South America, where lawmakers engaged with elected officials and activists in Colombia, Brazil, and Chile. The delegation aimed to challenge the dominant narrative of U.S. relations with the region and build collaborative relationships based on equality and mutual respect.

The resolution represents a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Latin America and signals a commitment to supporting democracy and human rights in the region. As the debate over the future of the Monroe Doctrine continues, Progressive Democrats are leading the charge for a more equitable and cooperative relationship with Latin America.