The Navy as Social Provider in Vieques,Puerto Rico

Abstract

This article examines a controversial economic development program sponsored by the Navy in Vieques, Puerto Rico. The program was designed to bring jobs to the unemployed population of Vieques by encouraging large defense contractors to subcontract to companies willing to locate operations on the island. Although the Navy's program has not been successful in stimulating the local economy, it is an important example of military "civic-action" programs that reflect a broader concept of the military mission-one more inclusive of social and economic considerations. The program is also an example of the nature of cooperation between the Navy and the business community in support of U.S. national-security interests and shows both the possibilities and the pitfalls of an economicdevelopment effort dependent on defense contracting. The poor outcome is attributed to the development model itself as well as to the larger context of social conflict between the Navy and Vieques residents and the relationship of this conflict to the motivation, content, and outcome of the Navy's development program. The article analyzes the Navy's failed effort in Vieques from both these perspectives.