NCJ Number
127042
Date Published
1989
Length
11 pages
Annotation
The United States should consider several policy options in their efforts to stem the flow of illicit drugs into the United States and recognize that each option either directly or indirectly affects the United States relationship with Latin American countries.
Abstract
The United States recognizes that drug trafficking poses threats both to its own national security and to the security of other countries. It also needs to understand more fully the importance of respecting the sovereignty of Latin American nations. Other possible policies include more aggressive enforcement directed at domestic criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking and money laundering, taking appropriate constitutional measures to regain control of its national borders, increasing multilateral measures to eliminate narcotics production and trafficking, and committing many more resources to drug control efforts. Other options include establishing a fund to aid other countries in breaking their dependence on drug proceeds, conducting more research on current and potential policies, and concentrating most efforts on reducing the demand for drugs in the United States.