NCJ Number
173208
Date Published
1996
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs discusses United States drug control efforts in the western hemisphere, particularly the progress and needs of the source country strategy.
Abstract
The total international counter-drug budget for fiscal year 1995 was about $850 million, including military and Coast guard support. The President's 1993 decision to adopt the source country strategy resulted from the previous 10 years' experience and the resulting recognition that drug interdiction alone would never be able to stem the flow of drugs from South America. Interdiction in the transit zone remains a crucial element of the overall strategy. The main methods used in the source country strategy are training and assistance programs that help source countries develop strong legal frameworks and help develop credible democratic institutions. Another crucial method is eradication of both coca and the opium poppy. The political will and strength of governments to deal with backlash against their antidrug measures are also crucial. Resources now needed to build on these successes through broadened crop control and interdiction programs, enhanced support in Bolivia and Peru for alternative development, and expanded training and assistance to foreign court and law enforcement systems. Increased bilateral cooperation between the United States and Mexico will also be important.