Revisiting Counter-Narcotics Policy in the Western Hemisphere

The global consensus on illicit drugs is weakening. The United States, alongside allies and partners, needs to push back against this terrible trend. A broad-based understanding of drugs as a transnational global scourge needs to be reinforced. In particular, counter-narcotics strategy should be reframed from a battle which can be won in a decisive stroke, towards​ an enduring, but eminently worthy effort similar to the fight against the proliferation of nuclear weapons or confronting global corruption.

This event will outline changes in the Western Hemisphere illicit drug landscape, including the rise of fentanyl and synthetics, as well as the enduring challenge of cocaine. It will also identify starting points for the United States to improve collaboration with allies to counter burgeoning drug trafficking organizations.

This event is made possible through general support to CSIS.