During 1990, interlocking criminal trafficking organizations, well financed and heavily armed, murdered presidential candidates and scores of innocent victims, many of them children, in different countries. Nevertheless, the democratic institutions in Colombia and Peru, two countries most affected, have survived. Moreover, law enforcement efforts resulted in the apprehension of several kingpin traffickers and the disruption of drug trafficking organizations. The pressure and enforcement actions also resulted in at least a temporary increase in the price of coca leaf in some producing areas. In addition, officials in a number of countries estimate that the abuse of certain drugs has declined or stabilized in some parts of society. Nevertheless, trafficking organizations, often in conjunction with terrorists, continue to form links within countries, within regions, and interregionally. Organizations in South America and Western Europe may be using each others' routes in a joint venture to smuggle cocaine to Europe and heroin to North America. Seizure data also reveal that such linkages are being established between Southeast Asian traffickers and criminal organizations elsewhere. The International Narcotics Control Board believes that resolute efforts by the countries concerned could have a significant impact on the problem. Reducing demand is particularly important; treatment and prevention approaches should be carefully evaluated.