The War on Drugs More than a conflict, a mechanism of political-bureaucratic control

Abstract

The present study examines the War on Drugs as a mechanism of political and bureaucratic control, arguing that this strategy has failed as an efective way to act against drug traficking. Explores its origins and consolidation, with a particular focus on the role of the United States in promoting prohibitionist policies and the efects on Latin America. Despite decades of eforts, strategies centered on interdiction, eradication, and fnancial aid for development have not reduced drug supply and demand. Instead, they have strengthened drug cartels, increased violence, and weakened state institutions. Initiatives such as Plan Colombia and the Mérida Initiative have proven inefective and a factor to delve into structural issues in production countries. Furthermore, the infuence of international agencies and the U.S. government has deep-rooted this model, hindering producer nations from evaluate alternative approaches such as regulation, decriminalization, or legalization. Political and bureaucratic interests amplify U.S. hegemony in the region rather than addressing the root causes of drug-related challenges. This study underscores the necessity of rethinking drug policy through frameworks developed within Latin America; emphasizing approaches rooted in regional realities rather than externally imposed paradigms