At the same time, there remain major problems that we must face with redoubled energy. Let us turn first to some of the positive developments. In a number of countries the growth of drug abuse has slowed considerably. In some cases it has stabilized or even reversed. Heroin use is down in the United Statesand parts of Western Europe.
Cocaine use is down in the United States and continues to be very small in Asia.
We also note in many countries that the age of initial drug use is rising, certainly a positive sign. Young people are being persuaded not to become involved in drug abuse. This is part of the growing evidence that good demand reduction policies pay off. We are also seeing some reversal of trends in the production of drugs. The total area worldwide under illicit opium poppy cultivation is now at its lowest level since 1988.