He warns that unless these concerns are addressed, Haitian democracy will not go forward.

But before we march to the drumbeat of restoring Haitian democracy, it might well be time to look at 20th- century realities.

It has essentially worked as a shell organization for elites intent on undermining Haitian democracy.

Now Haitian democracy seems to have its best chance yet.

To lift the embargo now would be to admit that the world community has given up on Haitian democracy.

Today, Haitian democracy is born after 186 years of misrule.

And while Haitian democracy is far from assured, matters do seem to be better there now than they were before.

But there has been a series of other developments recently that can only undermine Haitian democracy.

But it is just possible that the much-abused cause of Haitian democracy might benefit from the coup.

Would-be coup leaders in other countries are watching the response to the assault on Haitian democracy with keen interest.