A Scandalous Record

When the Reagan Administration's policy of support for El Salvador began in the early 1980s, the goal was honorable. It was to establish democracy and thereby bring peace to a repressive country. Nearly ten years and $4 billion later, there is still no peace.

The causes of El Salvador's cycle of violence have not gone away. By key measurable standards, from per capita income to infant mortality, the country is worse off today. Instead of helping win the peace, U.S. money has in large part financed an unwinnable war. Washington should rethink its relationship with a democratically elected government that cannot control fanatic right- wing elements in the armed forces.

El Salvador's armed forces, nourished by American dollars, bear primary responsibility for the country's scandalous human rights record. Washington should cut off military aid unless travesties like the killing of the six Jesuits are stopped.