Recommendations for a New Administration

Move beyond the Drug Focus in the Andes

For 25 years the U.S. government has had an “Andean policy,” focused primarily on keeping drugs produced in South America from arriving in the United States. Perhaps it is time for a change. On all sides, there has been growing skepticism, and in two cases rejection, of a one-note approach to the region. Instead, the United States should

  • tone down the rhetoric and emphasize partnerships;
     
  • exchange unilateral actions for capacity building;
     
  • continue to support programs for better governance and food security; and
     
  • keep the door open to free trade.

Phillip McLean