An Analysis of the National Drug Control Strategy: Are We Winning the War or is it Time for Change?
Abstract
The blight of drugs is upon America and there is no end in sight to the drug war. It is time our nation shifted its emphasis from supply interdiction to demand reduction. Anti-drug action grew continuously over the last decade. The federal government now spends $16 billion annually combating this problem to include extensive military support. Given the added social, medical, economic, and crime related problems, the National Drug Control Office estimates total annual costs at $67 billion. Our main focus is interdicting drug supply. Yet despite our nation's efforts, illicit drugs are readily available throughout America. Policy makers now suggest the phrase "War on Drugs" is misleading and implies quick victory, when another 10 to 20 years may be required. We just completed 10 years and little changed. Although expanding the military's support and governmental agency response has positive potential, in the end the key to the drug problem is demand. Without demand, there is no problem. We need to get our people off drugs. Beginning with the 1%98 National Drug Control Strategy, the country should gradually shift more money from supply to demand reduction. America cannot lead into the next millennium drug dependent.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 06, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA343559
Entities
People
- Russell J. Deluca
Organizations
- United States Army War College