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Conflict and Cooperation in the War on Drugs: The Caribbean Experience

NCJ Number
174977
Journal
Caribbean Journal of Criminology and Social Psychology Volume: 3 Issue: 1/2 Dated: January/July 1998 Pages: 83-95
Author(s)
J W King
Date Published
1998
Length
13 pages
Annotation
In recent years, bilateral antidrug efforts between the United States and various Caribbean nations has vacillated between cooperation and conflict, and the asymmetric relationship between the United States and the small economically dependent Caribbean nations has contributed to the perception that economic and political coercion is being used to force compliance with treaties.
Abstract
Drug trafficking and related problems of government corruption, money laundering, and increasing crime rates are prevalent in Caribbean nations, and regional and international efforts and resources are needed to deal with the multifaceted threat. Whereas geography, travel patterns, and government corruption provide opportunities for drug trafficking enterprises, economic adversity throughout the Caribbean region is a motivating factor for involvement in the drug trade. Drug trafficking activities can be addressed in a variety of ways, through law enforcement intelligence and strategies, economic assistance, and diplomatic efforts. These measures, however, require a level of mutual understanding and respect that is sometimes lacking when politically driven agendas and narrowly defined objectives are sought. Issues that make negotiation difficult and ways in which common ground can be found to address the threat of drug trafficking enterprises are discussed. The emphasis is on supply and demand, maritime counterdrug measures, and sovereignty and security. Caribbean maritime counterdrug agreements are listed in an appendix. 14 references and 7 notes