The report examines fighting money laundering as an effective way to combat drug trafficking and organized crime. The discussion includes a review of the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances of 1988, the United Nations role in combating money laundering, and results achieved to date. Operation of the international drug control system is described with regard to narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and precursors. Topics addressed include: (1) measures to ensure the execution of the provisions of the international convention on narcotic drugs; (2) trade in poppy seeds; (3) availability of opiates for medical purposes; (4) diversion of psychotropic substances from domestic distribution channels; (5) veterinary use of psychotropic substances; and (6) measures against the diversion of psychotropic substances and precursors through intermediaries. The report also includes analysis of the world situation by geographic areas. Notes, appendix, figures