This theoretical and empirical study is the first to examine the connection between the image and substance of Spain's democracy and the country's foreign policy in Central America. Rosenberg establishes a linkage between Spain's political model of democratic transition and Spanish foreign policy on the isthmus, while questioning the validity of the model as a foreign policy instrument. This well-documented case study is intended for political scientists and historians, students, scholars, and policymakers dealing with the complex and difficult relationships between Spain, Europe, and Central America and with major questions about the future of democracy.The notion of democracy is explored as a historical and contemporary feature of Central American politics since the nineteenth century. Spain's own democratic successes and failures are measured against the abstraction of the political model that the country uses as a foreign policy instrument. The institutional and operational aspects of Spanish foreign policy in Central America are considered against the backdrop of severe strategic, economic, and social crises there. The rhetoric and actions of the Spanish Socialist government are evaluated and considered in relation to foreign policy and democratic development in Central America.

Examines the connection between the image and substance of Spain's democracy and the country's foreign policy in Central America. Rosenberg explores the idea of democracy in Central America, measures Spain's democratic successes and failures, and examines Spanish foreign policy in relation to the political situation in Central America.

PrefaceIntroductionThe Democratic MarketSpain and Latin America: Democratic Models and the SearchGroping for Theory: The Spanish Democratic Model as an International MetaphorPackaging the ModelReconnoitering the TargetDemocracy's Moving Target: Central American Prospects and the Strategic DimensionThe Push OutwardTesting the International WatersDemocratic Transition, Spanish Policy and the Crisis in Central AmericaSocialist Policy in Central America: Parameters and ConstraintsDesperately Seeking Social Democracy: The Conduct of Socialist Policy in Central AmericaConclusion: 1992 and All ThatSelected BibliographyIndex