Caribbean Initiative Has Its Limits

The most profound problems that plague the countries of the Caribbean require transnational solutions. The region is both a destination and a point of transfer for everything from tourists to drugs, and as such its misfortunes are either expanding or contracting depending on forces often beyond the control of Caribbean governments.

Drug trafficking, arms trafficking and the return of deported criminals are the region's three most significant problems. In a communique after their meeting last week in Washington, President Bush and the leaders of 15 Caribbean nations agreed that they must face these threats and challenges together and build on successful partnerships to improve the region's security infrastructure.

Sometimes the region, in cooperation with the international community, gets things right, as it did this year with the World Cup of cricket. But for one incident -- the false suspicion of foul play in the death of Pakistan's coach, praise for the region's unprecedented security efforts seems deserved.

For 45 days this spring, World Cup action took place in nine nations of the Caribbean. With cricket powerhouses Pakistan, India and South Africa participating, organizers were concerned that the world's third largest sporting event would be a highly attractive target for terrorists.

Caribbean governments took the initiative early to get their military, police, customs, immigration and intelligence agencies to collaborate.

Washington, which traditionally takes a lead in counterdrug operations in the region, was asked to lend a hand.

Beginning in March of last year, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security provided training on counterterrorism, border security and other contingencies to Caribbean law enforcement agencies. Of particularly lasting significance was the fact that Caribbean governments tapped into the Advance Passenger Information System used by developed nations to screen travelers. U.S. officials confirmed that individuals on international watch lists were caught attempting to enter the region.