drug trafficking and threats essay

Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse Argumentative Essay

Introduction, economic impacts of illicit drug trafficking, social impacts of drug trafficking and abuse, reference list.

Illicit drug use is a major social problem with significant impacts on both the social and economic aspects of any country. The dramatic improvements in communication and technology coupled with global economic liberalization have contributed to growth of international trade.

At the same time, the social and political environment has led to improved trade environment attracting substantial investments in many nations. The recent liberalization of trade means that goods, human labor, and capital can freely move across national borders with minimal restrictions.

This has resulted to a good macroeconomic environment for growth of legitimate international trade (Reuter, & Kleiman, 1986, p.19). However, the liberalization of trade has also provided an opportunity for organized gangs to engage in drug trafficking on a global scale.

Cartels, consisting of drug producers and traffickers, produce illicit drugs, usually in developing countries, and distribute them into different countries gaining huge profits. The proceeds from drug trafficking are then invested in strategic financial centers as legitimate investments giving good investment returns to the drug traffickers.

This has only contributed to widening the economic inequality gap affecting the economic growth of a country. Trade in illicit drugs affects the global economy as well as the socio-political aspects of citizens.

Drug trafficking is a major global concern due to the substantial impacts it has on the economies of many countries. While drug trafficking may have immense “benefits” to drug traffickers and cartels, it however, causes considerable consequences on the health and financial systems of a country (Saffer, & Chaloupka, 1995, p.12). In particular, countries that have less stringent anti-trafficking laws tend to experience substantial social and political consequences.

This arises because much of the profits obtained from drug trafficking is invested in industrialized nations with the developing countries, which are often the source of these drugs, experiencing less investments (Reuter, & Kleiman,1986, p.21). As a result, a number of producer developing countries are experiencing stagnated economic growth.

Drug trafficking contributes to drug abuse in the society. Countries allocate substantial resources to fight illicit drug trafficking through various law enforcement agencies. In addition, resources are allocated to healthcare to fight drug-related illnesses (Hanson, Venturelli, & Fleckenstein, 2009, p.51). A country’s economy suffers as labor productivity declines because of illnesses and drug-related deaths. Drug trafficking also contributes to increased drug-related crime affecting security and regional stability.

Drug abuse is rampant particularly among youths in the age group of 18-35 who constitute the majority of the working population. Drug abuse among youthful population reduces their chances of finding gainful employment. It also affects their work performance, if employed, which results to dismissals.

According to Lawrence and Vinod, unemployment in both developed and developing countries is partly attributed to substance abuse (1993, p.117). In addition, the prices of illicit drugs are not regulated dependent only on the associated risks during production and trafficking; this means that the illicit drug industry generates substantial income that affects the economy of countries.

The drug income obtained by traffickers in producer countries is often used to import illegal luxury goods from other countries, which affects the price levels of local products. In producer countries, people neglect the production of essential commodities as they embark on illicit drug production. This also affects prices of essential commodities. Drug trafficking also increases income inequality as only few people in drug cartels get the drug profits as the drug farmers get comparatively less profits.

While the family and community play a significant role in reducing substance abuse among the youth, parental drug abuse strains most family relationships. Peer influence especially among the youth also contributes to drug abuse. Family factors including parental absence and parental use of illicit drugs also lead to drug abuse.

In addition, drug abuse produces many negative impacts on the health of individuals affecting their productivity (Hanson et al., 2009, p.53). Addiction to drugs such as heroin and cocaine affect the general health of the users with diseases such as HIV/AIDS being prevalent in drug injectors. This in turn affects the productivity of the general population, which adversely affects the economy of a country.

Environmental damage is increased by drug trafficking particularly in producer countries as forests are cleared for drug farming. Processing of the illicit drugs also releases dangerous chemicals into the environment (Hanson et al., 2009, p.57). Improper disposal of wastes resulting from processing of cocaine and heroin affects the environment. Drug trafficking also contributes to increased criminal activities that affect the security of citizens.

Drug addiction contributes to increased robbery and prostitution as the addicts seek for money to finance their drug use. Consequently, many resources are allocated to law enforcement officers to fight these drug-related vices at the expense of the other sectors of the economy.

Drug trafficking is major concern because of its socio-economic and political implications. Illicit drug money, once it enters an economy, it affects the political systems, the civil society, and the productivity of a country contributing to social disintegration and collapse of democratic governance. In addition, drug abuse affects the health and the productivity of human resource of a country, which in turn affects its economic growth and development.

Hanson, G., Venturelli, P., & Fleckenstein, A. (2009). Drugs and Society. London: Johns and Bardon Publishers.

Lawrence, S., & Vinod, T. (1993). Recent lessons of development. Research Observer, 2(1), 117.

Reuter, P., & Kleiman, M. (1986). Risk and prices: an economic analysis of drug Enforcement. Crime and Justice: An Annual Review of Research , 7(3), 19-21.

Saffer, H., & Chaloupka, F. (1995). The Demand for Illicit Drugs. National Bureau of Economic Research , 6, 9-14.

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113 Drug Trafficking Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Drug trafficking is a serious issue that affects countries all over the world. It is a multi-billion dollar industry that involves the production, distribution, and sale of illegal drugs. Drug trafficking not only fuels addiction and crime but also poses significant threats to public health and safety.

If you are tasked with writing an essay on drug trafficking, it can be challenging to come up with a topic that is both interesting and relevant. To help you get started, here are 113 drug trafficking essay topic ideas and examples:

• The history of drug trafficking
• The impact of drug trafficking on society
• Drug trafficking and its connection to organized crime
• The role of drug cartels in drug trafficking
• The influence of drug trafficking on international relations
• The economics of drug trafficking
• Drug trafficking and its impact on developing countries
• The relationship between drug trafficking and violence
• The role of law enforcement in combating drug trafficking
• The effectiveness of drug trafficking laws and policies
• The impact of drug trafficking on public health
• Drug trafficking and its connection to terrorism
• The impact of drug trafficking on human rights
• The role of technology in drug trafficking
• Drug trafficking and the dark web
• The role of corruption in drug trafficking
• Drug trafficking and its impact on the environment
• The role of drug trafficking in fueling addiction
• The impact of drug trafficking on marginalized communities
• The relationship between drug trafficking and drug addiction treatment
• Drug trafficking and its impact on the prison system
• The impact of drug trafficking on children and youth
• The relationship between drug trafficking and drug overdose deaths
• The role of drug trafficking in the opioid crisis
• The impact of drug trafficking on mental health
• Drug trafficking and its connection to human trafficking
• The role of drug trafficking in fueling gang violence
• The impact of drug trafficking on law enforcement officers
• The relationship between drug trafficking and money laundering
• The role of drug trafficking in the spread of infectious diseases
• The impact of drug trafficking on drug policy reform
• Drug trafficking and its impact on the criminal justice system
• The relationship between drug trafficking and drug sentencing disparities
• The role of drug trafficking in fueling drug wars
• The impact of drug trafficking on drug rehabilitation programs
• Drug trafficking and its connection to drug abuse prevention efforts
• The role of drug trafficking in drug overdose prevention
• The impact of drug trafficking on drug education programs
• The relationship between drug trafficking and drug legalization
• The role of drug trafficking in drug regulation
• The impact of drug trafficking on drug testing programs
• Drug trafficking and its connection to drug treatment programs
• The role of drug trafficking in drug use prevention
• The impact of drug trafficking on drug diversion programs
• The relationship between drug trafficking and drug diversion prevention
• The role of drug trafficking in drug diversion recovery
• The impact of drug trafficking on drug diversion treatment
• Drug trafficking and its connection to drug diversion prevention
• Drug trafficking

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Essay on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Students are often asked to write an essay on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Introduction.

Drug abuse and illicit trafficking are global problems. These issues affect society’s health, safety, and well-being. Drug abuse refers to the harmful use of drugs, while illicit trafficking involves illegal trade of drugs.

Effects of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse can lead to health problems, including mental disorders and physical illnesses. It can also cause social issues like unemployment, crime, and broken families.

Illicit Drug Trafficking

Illicit drug trafficking is a serious crime. It involves the manufacture, distribution, and sale of illegal drugs. This trade fuels crime, violence, and corruption.

To fight drug abuse and illicit trafficking, we need education, law enforcement, and treatment programs. It’s a fight that needs everyone’s participation.

250 Words Essay on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Drug abuse and illicit trafficking are interconnected global issues that impact societies at multiple levels. They pose significant threats to public health, socio-economic stability, and the rule of law.

The Scourge of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse is not confined to any demographic or socio-economic strata. It’s a pervasive issue that affects individuals, families, and communities. The repercussions extend beyond health problems, leading to broken families, lost potential, and increased crime rates. The abuse of prescription drugs and new psychoactive substances (NPS) has emerged as a significant concern, highlighting the evolving nature of drug abuse.

Illicit Trafficking: A Global Problem

Illicit drug trafficking fuels organized crime, destabilizes societies, and undermines economic growth. The clandestine nature of drug trafficking makes it a complex issue to tackle. It’s a lucrative business for criminal networks due to the high demand for drugs and the significant profits involved.

The Interplay and Impact

Drug abuse and illicit trafficking form a vicious cycle. Increased availability of drugs due to illicit trafficking leads to higher rates of drug abuse. Conversely, the demand created by drug abuse fuels illicit trafficking. This interplay exacerbates the social and economic issues associated with each problem.

Addressing drug abuse and illicit trafficking requires a holistic approach that includes education, prevention, treatment, and law enforcement efforts. It’s crucial to break the cycle of demand and supply to effectively combat these issues. By understanding the complexities and interconnectedness of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, we can develop more effective strategies to address these global problems.

500 Words Essay on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Drug abuse and illicit trafficking are significant global issues that continue to pose a serious threat to public health, social stability, and economic development. They are intrinsically linked phenomena that reinforce each other, creating a vicious cycle that is challenging to break.

Drug abuse refers to the chronic or habitual use of any chemical substance to alter states of body or mind for other than medically warranted purposes. It often leads to addiction, a complex brain disorder characterized by compulsive drug use despite harmful consequences. The repercussions of drug abuse are multifaceted, affecting not only the individual user but also their families, communities, and society at large.

Illicit Drug Trafficking: A Global Concern

Illicit drug trafficking, on the other hand, is a global black market dedicated to the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, and sale of drugs that are subject to drug prohibition laws. It’s a highly profitable, yet dangerous business, often associated with powerful transnational organized crime networks. Its impacts are far-reaching, undermining social and economic development, political stability, and public health.

The Interplay between Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

The relationship between drug abuse and illicit trafficking is symbiotic. The demand for drugs fuels the illicit trade, while the availability of drugs promotes abuse and addiction. This interplay creates a self-perpetuating cycle that exacerbates both problems.

The illicit drug trade also has a significant impact on drug abuse rates. The illegal nature of the business means that drugs are often cut with harmful substances, increasing the risk of overdose and other health complications. Furthermore, the lack of regulation makes it easier for individuals, particularly vulnerable populations such as the youth, to access drugs.

Addressing the Issue

Addressing drug abuse and illicit trafficking requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach. This includes prevention efforts aimed at reducing the demand for drugs, harm reduction strategies to minimize the negative health impacts of drug use, and supply reduction measures to disrupt the illicit drug trade.

Education plays a crucial role in prevention. By raising awareness about the dangers of drug use and promoting healthy coping mechanisms, we can help individuals make informed decisions and reduce the likelihood of drug abuse.

Simultaneously, law enforcement efforts must be strengthened to dismantle the illicit drug trade. This includes improving international cooperation to combat transnational organized crime networks, enhancing intelligence capabilities to disrupt supply chains, and strengthening legal frameworks to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.

In conclusion, drug abuse and illicit trafficking are interconnected global problems that require concerted efforts to address. By understanding their interplay and implementing comprehensive strategies, we can work towards a future free from the devastating impacts of these phenomena. The challenge is daunting, but with the right approach, it is surmountable.

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United States Drug Enforcement Administration

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DEA Releases 2020 National Drug Threat Assessment

WASHINGTON – DEA Acting Administrator D. Christopher Evans today announced the release of the 2020 National Drug Threat Assessment, DEA’s annual publication outlining the threats posed to the United States by domestic and international drug trafficking and the abuse of illicit drugs.

“This year’s report shows the harsh reality of the drug threats facing communities across the United States,” said Acting Administrator Evans. “While the COVID-19 pandemic plagues this nation, so, too, do transnational criminal organizations and violent street gangs, adjusting to pandemic restrictions to flood our communities with dangerous drugs. DEA and our local, state, and federal partners continue to adapt to the ever changing landscape, remaining focused on the current threats and looking to the horizon for emerging threats. We will always defend the American people against illicit substances that ruin lives, devastate families, and destroy communities.”

Drugs trends in the United States continue to evolve. While fentanyl and fentanyl analogues from China have decreased substantially following the DEA’s 2018 emergency scheduling action of fentanyl related substances and China’s enactment of fentanyl-class controls in May 2019, the opioid threat remains at epidemic levels, affecting large portions of the country. Meanwhile, the stimulant threat, including methamphetamine and cocaine, is worsening both in volume and reach, with traffickers selling increasing amounts outside of traditional markets.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 83,000 people lost their lives to drug-related overdoses in the twelve-month period ending in July of 2020, a significant increase from 2019, when more than 70,000 people died of overdoses.

2020 NDTA findings of note:

Mexican Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) remain the greatest criminal drug threat in the United States.

Illicit fentanyl is one of the primary drugs fueling the epidemic of overdose deaths in the United States, while heroin and prescription opioids remain significant challenges to public health and law enforcement.

Mexican cartels are increasingly responsible for producing and supplying fentanyl to the U.S. market. China remains a key source of supply for the precursor chemicals that Mexican cartels use to produce the large amounts of fentanyl they are smuggling into the United States.  

Drug-poisoning deaths and seizures involving methamphetamine have risen sharply as Mexican TCOs increase the drug’s availability and expand the domestic market.

Constraints associated with the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic – daily travel restrictions, U.S. border closings, closure of nonessential businesses, and broad shelter-in-place orders – temporarily posed new challenges to criminal organizations’ movement of drugs during the first half of 2020.

The National Drug Threat Assessment provides a yearly assessment of the challenges communities face related to drug abuse and drug trafficking. Highlights in the report include usage and trafficking trends for drugs such as prescription drugs, heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and hundreds of synthetic drugs. New to this year’s report is the effect of COVID-19 during the first part of 2020.

The assessment gathers information from many data sources, such as drug investigations and seizures, drug purity, laboratory analysis, information on transnational and domestic criminal groups, and U.S. government drug cultivation and production estimates.

The National Drug Threat Assessment is available at www.dea.gov/documents/2021/03/02/2020-national-drug-threat-assessment .  

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2 Illegal Drugs as a National Security Threat: Securitization of Drugs in the U.S. Official Discourse

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The chapter examines the process of securitizing drugs in the United States as a major national security threat. The work uses discourse analysis to examine the evolution of the perception of drugs as a national security threat. This chapter examines selected texts of governmental documents, official speeches, and press conferences in order to analyze the official position of the U.S. government regarding drugs.

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The Interplay of Extremism and Drug Trafficking in Funding Terrorism

This essay about the intertwining of extremism and drug trafficking in financing terrorism. It explores how extremist groups exploit drug trade for financial gain and ideological advancement. The essay highlights the dual threat posed by this nexus to society, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach involving law enforcement, counterterrorism measures, and addressing root causes such as poverty and inequality. It underscores the importance of international cooperation and technological advancements in disrupting terrorist financing networks. Ultimately, it calls for a comprehensive response to mitigate the threat and promote global security.

How it works

Terrorism financing remains a significant global concern, with extremist groups leveraging various means to fund their activities. Among these means, the nexus between extremism and drug trafficking stands out as a complex and multifaceted issue. This intricate relationship intertwines the agendas of extremist organizations with the lucrative world of illicit drug trade, posing serious challenges to international security efforts.

At the heart of this nexus lies a symbiotic relationship, where extremist groups exploit drug trafficking networks for financial gain while also furthering their ideological agendas.

The vast profits generated from drug trafficking provide a steady stream of revenue that enables these groups to finance their operations, purchase weapons, and recruit new members. In return, terrorist organizations offer protection and logistical support to drug traffickers, allowing them to operate with relative impunity in certain regions.

Moreover, the convergence of extremism and drug trafficking presents a dual threat to society, amplifying the risks posed by both phenomena. On one hand, the spread of extremist ideologies fueled by drug profits contributes to radicalization and violence, undermining social cohesion and stability. On the other hand, the illicit drug trade perpetuated by terrorist organizations fuels addiction, crime, and corruption, further eroding the fabric of society.

Addressing the nexus between extremism and drug trafficking requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses both law enforcement and counterterrorism measures. This includes disrupting the financial flows that sustain terrorist activities, dismantling drug trafficking networks, and addressing the root causes of extremism such as poverty, inequality, and political grievances. Additionally, international cooperation and intelligence-sharing are essential for effectively combating this complex threat, as terrorist organizations and drug traffickers often operate across borders.

Furthermore, efforts to counter terrorism financing must go beyond traditional approaches and adapt to the evolving nature of the threat. This entails leveraging advanced technologies and financial intelligence to track illicit transactions, identifying and targeting key nodes within terrorist financing networks, and disrupting the flow of funds through both formal and informal channels. Moreover, empowering communities to resist extremist ideologies and providing alternative livelihoods for those vulnerable to recruitment are crucial components of long-term prevention strategies.

In conclusion, the nexus between extremism and drug trafficking represents a significant challenge to global security, requiring a comprehensive and coordinated response from the international community. By unraveling the intricate connections between these phenomena and addressing their underlying drivers, we can mitigate the threat posed by terrorism financing and work towards a safer and more resilient world.

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Home — Essay Samples — Law, Crime & Punishment — Crime — Drug Trafficking

Essays on Drug Trafficking

Writing an essay on drug trafficking is important because it sheds light on a critical issue that affects societies around the world. Drug trafficking not only fuels organized crime and violence but also has devastating effects on individuals and communities. By writing an essay on this topic, you can raise awareness, educate others, and contribute to the conversation on how to address this pressing problem.

When writing an essay on drug trafficking, it is important to start by conducting thorough research. You should gather information from credible sources such as academic journals, government reports, and reputable news outlets. This will ensure that your essay is well-informed and based on reliable data.

It is also crucial to consider the different aspects of drug trafficking, such as its impact on public health, the economy, and national security. By addressing these various dimensions, you can provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue and its far-reaching consequences.

Additionally, it is important to present a balanced perspective in your essay. While it is important to highlight the negative effects of drug trafficking, you should also consider potential solutions and initiatives aimed at combating this problem. This will give your essay a more constructive and hopeful tone, inspiring readers to consider the ways in which they can contribute to addressing drug trafficking.

In conclusion, writing an essay on drug trafficking is important for raising awareness and contributing to the ongoing efforts to address this global issue. By conducting thorough research, considering different aspects of the problem, and presenting a balanced perspective, you can create a compelling and impactful essay that adds value to the conversation on drug trafficking.

What Makes a Good Drug Trafficking Essay Topics

When it comes to choosing a topic for a Drug Trafficking essay, it's important to consider several factors in order to come up with a strong and compelling topic. To brainstorm and choose an essay topic, you can start by considering current events and issues related to drug trafficking, such as the impact of drug trafficking on society, the role of law enforcement in combating drug trafficking, or the influence of drug cartels on the global economy. Additionally, it's important to consider the scope of the topic and its relevance to the field of study. A good essay topic should be thought-provoking, relevant, and provide the opportunity for in-depth analysis and discussion.

Best Drug Trafficking Essay Topics

• The impact of drug trafficking on developing countries
• The role of technology in combating drug trafficking
• The influence of drug cartels on the global economy
• Drug trafficking and its impact on public health
• The relationship between drug trafficking and organized crime
• The role of corruption in facilitating drug trafficking
• The effectiveness of international cooperation in combating drug trafficking
• The impact of drug trafficking on indigenous communities
• The role of social media in drug trafficking operations
• The future of drug trafficking in the age of legalization

Drug Trafficking Essay Topics Prompts

• Imagine you are a member of a task force combating drug trafficking. Describe a successful operation and the challenges you faced.
• Write a narrative essay about a fictional character involved in drug trafficking and the impact it has on their life and relationships.
• Create a persuasive essay arguing for or against the legalization of certain drugs and its potential impact on drug trafficking.
• Research and write an essay on a specific drug trafficking case and its implications for law enforcement and society.
• Interview a law enforcement officer or expert on drug trafficking and write a profile piece highlighting their experiences and insights.

Choosing a compelling and relevant topic is crucial to writing a successful Drug Trafficking essay. By considering current events, relevance, and scope, you can come up with a topic that will engage your readers and provide a platform for meaningful discussion and analysis.

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MENU DOJ Strategic Plan

• A Message from the Attorney General
• A Message from the Deputy Attorney General
• A Message From the Associate Attorney General
• Mission, Values, and Organization
• DOJ Strategic Plan at a Glance
• Strategic Goal 1: Uphold the Rule of Law
• Objective 2.1: Protect National Security
• Objective 2.2: Counter Foreign and Domestic Terrorism
• Objective 2.3: Combat Violent Crime and Gun Violence
• Objective 2.4: Enhance Cybersecurity and Fight Cybercrime

Objective 2.5: Combat Drug Trafficking and Prevent Overdose Deaths

• Objective 2.6: Protect Vulnerable Communities
• Strategic Goal 3: Protect Civil Rights
• Strategic Goal 4: Ensure Economic Opportunity and Fairness for All
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Drug trafficking and substance abuse continue to take a significant toll on the American public.  In the twelve months between September 2020 and September 2021, more than 104,000 Americans died due to drug overdose.  The overwhelming majority of these deaths involved opioids.  The Department will address this harm in several ways.  The Department will combat transnational drug trafficking organizations.  These organizations are operating a $500 billion industry that fuels corruption, violence, and terrorism around the globe.

In addition, the Department will address the evolving nature of the illicit drug threat, on both the dark and clear webs.  While the dark web remains a threat, social media and e-commerce platforms on the clear web have emerged as new marketplaces to buy and sell counterfeit pills, opioids, and other drugs, as well as dangerous precursor chemicals and the equipment used to manufacture pills.  Many of the counterfeit pills sold online, which look exactly like actual pharmaceuticals, are marketed to kids, teens, and young adults, and are often mixed with synthetic fentanyl – the leading driver of the overdose epidemic.  Dismantling illicit online drug marketplaces and holding responsible corporations – including responsible executives – who enable these illicit drug marketplaces, are critical to preventing overdoses and stemming the flow of dangerous drugs into our communities.

The Justice Department will also continue to detect, limit, and deter fraud and illegal prescription, distribution, and diversion offenses that result in patient harm.  Finally, the Department will address the needs of individuals involved with the justice system who have substance use and mental health disorders to promote long-term recovery.

Strategy 1: Disrupt and Dismantle Drug Trafficking Organizations The Department will use all available resources to combat drug trafficking in the United States.  We will simultaneously target the trafficking organizations, their financial infrastructure, and their distribution networks.  We will share information across components and in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.  We will employ enhanced intelligence analysis and scientific research to target, investigate, and prosecute traffickers participating in significant transnational, national, and regional drug trafficking organizations.  And we will target international sources of supply, money launderers, international and domestic transportation organizations, and regional and local distribution networks.

Strategy 2: Reduce Deaths and Addiction Driven by Drug Crime As part of our effort to address the opioid epidemic, we will focus our attention on the diversion of pharmaceutical controlled substances to illegitimate consumers.  The Department will continue to employ advanced data analytics to identify and investigate suspicious billing and prescription patterns.  We will also prosecute medical professionals and corporations – including responsible executives – involved in the illegal prescription, diversion, and distribution of opioids.  Finally, we will continue to evaluate drug prescription quotas and investigate and prosecute fraud and kickback schemes in the substance use treatment industry.

Strategy 3: Expand Access to Evidence-Based Prevention and Treatment In conjunction with other agencies, the Department will work to ensure that individuals with substance use disorders get the treatment and ongoing support they need.  The Department will support the expansion of evidence-based, opioid-use disorder treatment options, including for incarcerated individuals and those reentering the community.  For the public at large, the Department will work with other agencies to reform regulations to increase access to medication-assisted treatment and assist states and localities in implementing such programs.  The Department will also work with state, local, and Tribal partners to increase access to recovery support services and continuity of care across public safety and public health systems.  In addition, the Department will aggressively enforce the civil rights laws on behalf of people with substance use and mental health disorders. 

More broadly, the Department will also promote evidence-based crisis response deflection, diversion, and alternatives to incarceration, and will support education and training about substance use disorders for public safety professionals and others across the justice system.  To stop the cycle of substance use before it starts, we will invest in prevention efforts, particularly for youth, and combat the stigma associated with substance use disorders. 

Key Performance Indicators:

• Percent of disruptions or dismantlements of drug trafficking organizations focused on the highest priority targets
• Amount of diversion, nationally, of opioids and stimulants
• Percent of relevant-funded grantee programs that provide medication-assisted-treatment, which includes medication plus counseling, as part of their substance use disorder services

Contributing DOJ Components:  CIV, CRM, CRT, USAO, OCDETF, DEA, FBI, COPS, OJP, JMD 

Drug trafficking essay

Drug trafficking is one of the most serious problems for most countries all over the world. Unfortunately, this type of business is rather profitable, if not to consider that it is constantly related to murders, kidnapping, prostitution and other crimes. Certainly drug trafficking contributes to better distribution of drugs, thus involving more and more people, making them addicted. Taking into consideration all the possible dangers, drugs are able to bring to any society, most countries are working constantly in order to prevent use and distribution of drugs which are not legal. The rage of responsibility varies in different countries, from fines and several years in prison to death punishment in China for example. Generally, “drug trafficking” means production, distribution and sale of illegal drugs. (Syal, 2009, p. 2). In this paper we are going to stop at some historical information, related to drugs and drug trafficking, the effects drug trafficking has upon people and societies, we will use some concrete examples of illegal drugs and finally discuss possible ways of limiting distribution of drugs or banning it on the basis of the Obama’s National Drug Control Strategy.

Historically, it is possible to talk about appearance of illegal drug trade around the beginning of the 19 th century. “China retaliated by enforcing the ban on imports of opium that led to the First Opium War (1839–1842) between Great Britain and Qing dynasty China” (Berridge, 1981, p. 5). The highest authorities in China struggled against free sales of opium, whereas United Kingdom pushed China to let the merchants from China bring opium without any bans. However the volumes of opium trade continued to grow, because smoking opium turned into a habit among usual people. No wonder that the number of opium addicts grew immensely in the 19 th century. The Second Opium War took place in 1856, the result of the two wars was that “the British Crown, via the treaties of Nanking and Tianjin , took large sums of money from the Chinese government through this illegal trade, which were referred to as “reparations” (Berridge, 1981, p. 10).

In the year 1868, the government of the UK took the decision to restrict sale of opium in the Pharmacy Act. In 1914 Harrison Act followed in the United States. Thus, it is clear, that even taking into consideration the fact, that opium sale brought good profits, sooner or later, governments had to restrict and take under control illegal drugs, in order not to worsen the situation with addicted people.

Further, it is necessary to study the effects of the illegal drug trade upon usual people, as well as societies in generally, in detail. This is evident, that those countries, where drugs transit and distribution was widely developed, had to face the problems with drug addicted individuals.

Most researches confirm the fact that illegal drug trade is closely related to crimes’ rate, namely such violent crimes, as murders. In this case we are unfortunately talking not only about developing, but about developed countries as well. For example, “In the late 1990s in the United States the Federal Bureau of Investigation estimated that 5% of murders were drug-related” (Berridge, 1981, p 3).

The UK government’s surveys also underlined, that because of high cost of the illegal drugs and strong addiction, people are likely to commit serious crimes, including robberies, burglaries, murders and so on. “The cost of crime committed to support illegal cocaine and heroin habits amounts to £16 billion a year in the UK” (Epstein, 1989, p. 13). The fact, that drugs were illegal, unfortunately could not restrict the actual sale and distribution, on the contrary this field of criminal activity was able to bring such high profits and the system was so well-built, that drugs became integrated into the American culture. “This high price is caused by a combination of factors that include the potential legal ramifications that exist for suppliers of illicit drugs and their high demand. (Limited supply can be caused by a range of factors) (Epstein, 1989, p.14).There appeared certain layers of society, where the high cost could not be an obstacle and drugs were used as a type of recreational activity. Irrespective of constant attempts to seize control over this problem by the authorities, it is still remaining actual for the USA as well as other countries all over the world. The 1940s brought prohibition of opiates, the 1960s – of marijuana and the 1970s – of heroin, however cocaine and other drugs continued to arrive to the U.S. through the Mexican border. “An estimated $10 billion of the Mexican drug cartel’s profits come from the United States, not only supplying the Mexican drug cartels with the profit necessary for survival, but also furthering Americans’ economic dependence on drugs.” (Epstein, 1989, p 16). The results were that first of all the number of drug-addicted people constantly grew and secondly, illegal drugs’ trade proved to be a business of very high profits and in fact a lot of businessmen invested exactly into this industry.

Demographic was also in a way under influence of illegal drugs. Starting from the 1960s a lot of immigrants arrived to America and the diversity of public was evident. As several decades pasted, more and more criminal records, related to murders and other criminal acts on the basis of drug addiction, were created. Certainly the situation was different in different cities, however generally it really caused a great concern. “An example of this could be seen in Miami, a city with a host of ethnic enclaves. [44] Between 1985 and 1995, the homicide rate in Miami was one of the highest in the nation and rated four times the national homicide average” (Epstein, 1989, p. 22). The decades between 1960s and 1980s also revealed the effects of drug trade upon the baby boomer generation. The demand for marijuana and other drugs was getting higher and higher during this period, resulting in its turn in increase of criminal cases, including suicide, murders, substance abuse. Thus, the insufficient control and restriction of illegal drugs had really serious impact upon individuals as well as societies in general.

Political impact, which illegal drug trade had, could not be underestimated as well. The above-mentioned generation of the baby boomers was used to confront laws on various issues, including illegal drugs. The government was taking specific steps in order to restrict drug trafficking and trade, but with poor results. Marijuana was imported from the Latin America, whereas cocaine was received from Mexico and Colombia. “Due to the influence of this development on the U.S. economy, the Reagan Administration began “certifying” countries for their attempts at controlling drug trafficking” (Syal, 2009, p. 10). During the 1980s America pushed more for restriction of drug transit. The result was that more drugs arrived from Mexico: in the beginning of the 1990s – these were around 50 % of cocaine and by the middle of the 1990s – the percentage increased up to 90 %. Some researches state that between the years 1996 and 2000 the total consumption of cocaine on the territory of the U.S. decreased by 11 %.

The Merida Initiative was a state program, which was initiated in 2008, with the major aim to stop drug trafficking from Mexico. The financial assistance from America, along with possibility to buy the necessary equipment was supposed to produce their positive effect. Unfortunately, the drug trade continued. Thus it is evident, that illegal drug trade has its impact upon internal political situation in any country as well as upon international relations in general.

Cannabis is one of the most popular drugs, the legalization of which till the moment remains a rather controversial issue. Most countries all over the world defined this drug as an illegal one. There are countries, as Canada for example, which made cannabis legal for recreational use, with restriction of its import and distribution. In the year 2014 Uruguay considered legalization of cultivation and sale of cannabis for adult individuals with recreational purposes. In the Netherlands possession and licensed sale of cannabis are not prohibited, however cultivation of the drug is against the law.

Heroin is another wide-spread illegal drug, initially cultivated in the Golden Triangle – Southeast Asia. In addition, opiate was transported from Afghanistan and Mexico. “According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration , the price of heroin is typically valued 8 to 10 times that of cocaine on American streets, making it a high-profit substance for smugglers and dealers” (Syal, 2009, p. 10). The price of heroin, which is up to 10 times higher than that of cocaine, guarantees dealers and distributors good profits. High costs also contribute to easier transportation, as small doses are easier to hide. One the other hand, penalties for smuggling and heroin sale are rather serious in most countries, including life sentence or even death sentences.

Methamphetamine is also rather popular under such names as “ice”, “meth”. It is often produced at some rolling meth labs, which makes it rather difficult to detect. This drug is very dangerous due to its injectable form, which might be the source of such infections as HIV or hepatitis C. Usually it is inhaled through some kind of tube.

Temazepam, another example of wide-spread illegal drugs, is “a strong hypnotic benzodiazepine , is illicitly manufactured in clandestine laboratories to supply the increasingly high demand for the hypnotic drug internationally (Syal, 2009, p. 8). Eastern Europe is the place of concentration of such labs. In the United Kingdom temazepam belongs to legal drugs and is very often abused. In Sweden it was banned after numerous deaths caused by the drug.

Thus in this section we have briefly studied some examples of the widely –spread illegal drugs, countries of their origin and application, possible negative effects and risks of the most famous illegal drugs.

It is evident, that the problems of drug abuse, drug distribution and drug trafficking need complex solutions from the authorities. A lot of politic leaders and government representatives contributed their efforts into solving of the illegal drugs problems. President Obama is not an exception, in May 2010 he released the National Drug Control Strategy. “ The press release states that the report “establishes five-year goals for reducing drug use and its consequences through a balanced policy of prevention, treatment, enforcement, and international cooperation ( Syal, 2009, p. 13 ). This Strategy suggests five-year goals aiming at reduction of drug abuse, namely:

“ • Reduce the rate of youth drug use by 15 percent; • Decrease drug use among young adults by 10 percent; • Reduce the number of chronic drug users by 15 percent; • Reduce the incidence of drug-induced deaths by 15 percent; and • Reduce the prevalence of drugged driving by 10 percent” (Syal, 2009, p. 13).

The three main challenges, described in this strategy include prevention of drug use, of driving under drug impact and prescription drug abuse. A separate place in the strategy is devoted to the problem of recovery of the people, who already became addicted and need urgent and concrete help. Addiction is not the final sentence, there are many case, where the situation might be returned under control with the help of special community addiction centers, development of new medications and so on.

Overall, in this paper we have studied the notion of drug trafficking, its historical development and various approaches, applied in different countries towards this problem; we have pointed out some concrete spheres of illegal drug abuse influences, including political, social spheres; we have listed the most popular and wide-spread drugs, their major qualities, places of cultivation and ways of transportation and distribution. All this information is vitally important for understanding the necessity of better international along with internal control of illegal drugs and their trafficking, as well as possible means and strategies, which would positively contribute to restriction and control of drug trafficking for the sake of future healthy generations.

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