Merida Initiative Would Help Region Combat Crime
April 29, 2008

*****

President Bush proposed the Merida Initiative to the US Congress to provide Mexico and Central America with much needed support in the fight against transnational crime.  The President requested an initial $500 million dollars for Mexico and $50 million for Central America for 2008.  In 2009, the proposal includes a request for $100 million for Central America.

For El Salvador, if Congress approves the Initiative, it would mean more than $7 million dollars in U.S. aid in 2008 for public security and law enforcement training and equipment, including funding for institution building and rule of law assistance.

The Merida Initiative complements the domestic efforts that the U.S. is undertaking to reduce drug demand, stop the flow of arms and weapons, and confront gangs and criminal organizations.

To learn more:  Merida Fact Sheet