NCJ Number
172884
Date Published
1997
Length
332 pages
Annotation
This report reviews research findings regarding global patterns and trends in illicit drug production, trafficking, and consumption; drug abuse causes and consequences; national and international responses to drug issues; and issues regarding drug policies.
Abstract
The report also explains the types of drugs that are the focus of international control and definitions of terms such as drug abuse and drug dependence. Additional sections explain drug effects on the human organization and the social impact of drugs on individuals, families, and communities. Further sections discuss the consequences of the illegal drug economy at the national and international level, including the costs of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation programs; the costs of traffic and workplace accidents; the loss of productivity and earnings; and the costs of drug-related crimes to victims and the criminal justice system. The discussion also notes that the profits derived from illicit drug trafficking seem to provide few, if any, long-term macroeconomic benefits for the countries concerned. Further chapters focus on the roles and responsibilities of national and international organizations in addressing drug problems, and strategies used to reduce drug supplies and the demand for drugs. The final section examines the drug problems in Australia, Colombia, Italy, Pakistan, Sweden, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and the United States and the ways these countries have addressed these problems. Figures, tables, maps, photographs, reference notes, and reference lists