Drug War. Are We Winning or Losing

摘要

Although the United States only has 4-5% of the earth's population, we consumenearly 50% of the world's production of cocaine. Since President Reagan first declared a 'war on drugs' on 14 October 1982, that was reaffirmed by President Bush and again by President Clinton, the United States and its military forces, have continually experienced an uphill battle against reducing the supply of drugs coming into and within the United States. The military is doing a commendable job in performing its mission but dealing with the supply end of the drug equation alone will not yield success. How we deal with this issue requires a multi-juridictional approach. Success means more programs for demand-reduction, prevention, along with supply reduction. We also must establish criteria determining success. This political football needs a new coach, uniforms and larger playing fields.