Failing War on Drugs in America Essay Example

Politicians exploit public fears and promote themselves to demonstrate active efforts in addressing addiction-related issues by enacting stringent laws.

There is a lack of compliance due to politicians passing laws without an effective enforcement system. Government officials have created a concerning loophole by classifying certain hard drugs as having medicinal benefits. Despite prioritizing citizens' well-being, the government's efforts to combat drug-related crimes have resulted in numerous deaths caused by drug trafficking and abuse. Data from around the world shows that Colombia, Honduras, Mexico, El Salvador, and Venezuela are the most dangerous countries in Latin America - the world's most violent region. Conflicts between drug cartels and government anti-drug forces account for approximately half of the deaths in this region (Rincon-Ruiz, p. 61).

The government is confronted with a moral quandary as it grapples with drug-related deaths while attempting to combat drugs. It must decide between eradicating drugs and the accompanying loss of life. Though it is ethically correct for the government to fight against drugs, the adverse effects have impeded necessary actions. Consequently, the government has taken steps such as criminalizing drug producers and incarcerating numerous drug dealers.

Despite proposing a solution to combat drug-related issues, organized crime factions involved in the drug trade have still managed to amass substantial profits. These profits are estimated to be around $320 billion annually (Rincon-Ruiz, p.62). The increased benefits enable drug cartels to bribe politicians, police officers, and judges, enabling them to sustain their unlawful operations. Furthermore, the war against substance abuse in America has proven unsuccessful for several reasons. Firstly, it lacks a comprehensive strategy to eradicate the availability of hard drugs in the global market. Although measures like fumigation

and crop substitution programs have been implemented to hinder the production of cocaine, heroin, and marijuana, they have not significantly impacted overall drug manufacturing.

Despite their original intention to address drug use, these programs have actually worsened the living conditions of impoverished communities and drug-cultivating farmers. Additionally, counter-narcotics policies have proven ineffective in regulating the transportation of narcotics from Latin America to northern regions of America. This lack of effectiveness is demonstrated by the fact that 90% of drugs consumed in the US are sourced from Colombia (Bouley, p. 169). The evidence presented in this essay clearly indicates that the war on drugs in America is failing; however, it should be noted that this does not mean the government should abandon its efforts to control drug usage.

Instead of seeing it as a failure, the American people have an opportunity and milestone to develop more effective strategies to combat drug abuse. The American government would greatly benefit from implementing the recommendations made by the Global Commission on Drug Policy. These recommendations include:

• Making evidence-based prevention and harm reduction initiatives the cornerstone of drug policy.
• Ensuring access to drugs that can alleviate unnecessary pain and suffering for individuals undergoing rehabilitation.
• Putting an end to criminalization and imprisonment for drug use and personal possession.