NCJ Number
183081
Editor(s)
Richard C. Monk
Date Published
1998
Length
14 pages
Annotation
A writer contends that expanding U.S. support for drug control in Latin America serves only to curry political favor with conservatives, take the focus off White House scandals, give the U.S. military something to do, and allow the militaries of other countries to terrorize and repress their people; in contrast, the director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy argues that hemispheric drug control represents a vital example of historical and economic linkages between North and South America to solve mutual problems, including drug production, distribution, consumption, and corruption.
Abstract
The writer argues that the international war on drugs has a very questionable agenda, one that involves human rights violations. Further, he contends that the international war on drugs fuels repression and poses significant costs to U.S. taxpayers while doing little to stop the flow of drugs. The director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy believes that the international war on drugs is benefiting and is wholeheartedly being participated in by both North and South America. He feels that most leaders view drugs as a terrible problem and are working together to solve the problem. He specifically discusses cooperation between the United States and Mexico and the potential for public-private anti-drug coalitions.