ASEP entered into force on March 26, 1976, and has enhanced cooperation among South American countries in combating drug problems. Regional resources have been used to cope with South American drug problems. Through ASEP, member countries have cooperated to increase regional support for international drug control initiatives. ASEP has created five regional centers to focus on the following drug problems: treatment and rehabilitation, preventive education, suppression of illicit drug trafficking, documentation, and customs techniques. ASEP encourages integrated community development as an appropriate approach to eradicating coca plantations in those parts of South America where growing coca is a part of the cultural tradition.