Waging the Wrong War: Drug War Strategy and Issues
Abstract
The war on drugs is disjointed and has evolved without a clear objective or center of gravity. Numerous agencies are pursuing different ends without a comprehensive, coordinated strategy. Competing national interests, legal restraints, confusing chains of command, interagency competition, political maneuvering, and wavering public interest have all contributed to complicating a workable strategy. The Department of Defense, as a major contributor in the war on drugs, has been assigned increasing responsibilities in the area of supply abatement--the area which our national leaders feel is most appropriate for the military. This study examines counternarcotics strategy from the perspectives of intelligence and law enforcement as these disciplines are affected by the law. After examining issues preventing drug war success, the study proposes a reorientation toward the true center of gravity--domestic demand reduction.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 15, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA251198
Entities
People
- Malcolm H. Squires Jr.
- Peter L. Petoskey
- Wayne C. Harris
Organizations
- United States Army War College