La guerra perpetua: las drogas ilícitas y el mundo andino

In: Pensamiento iberoamericano: revista bianual, Band 2, Heft 8, S. 105-127

Abstract

From a comparative and historical perspective it's possible to spot the evolution of the drug phenomenon in the Andean region since the 90's. This means that we can observe the changes and continuities from the phenomenon itself and its respective domestic impact, as well as the strategies used to confront it. Generally, government's anti-narcotic policies have been unilateral which limited the possibility of joint actions to face the phenomenon in the Andean region. A long term overview of the region shows that the State hasn't gained strategic strength, and that organized crime linked to drugs has gained significant tactic advantages. The drug phenomenon has activated new and more voices; which lead to an "empowerment" of diverse actors traditionally ignored. The sub region should aim for a comprehensive strategy so that the State can work with a postponed agenda of socio-economical and political-institutional unresolved difficulties; which gradual resolution can be highly positive because of its impact on alleviating the negative social consequences paired with the drug henomenon. In this context, the European Union and United States' support towards a comprehensive strategy has been null. (Pensam Iberoam/GIGA)