But these courts themselves systematically violate internationally recognized norms of due process. The anti-narcotics police forces that the U.S. has created in Bolivia brazenly intimidate, abuse, and torture peasants while carrying out eradication campaigns. The U.S. maintained a relationship with Peru's ex-intelligence chief, Vladimir Montesinos, who they viewed as an ally in the war on drugs, despite concerns about his involvement in human rights violations. Ties were cut only after it was publicly revealed that Montesinos was involved in corruption and implicated in arms and drug trafficking. In Colombia, the U.S. is pursuing a militarized anti-drug strategy that will escalate conflict, exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, and ultimately damage prospects for peace.
Certification distorts the U.S. national conversation on foreign policy toward Latin America.
What is needed is more reflection about U.S. foreign policies that are central to improving U.S.-Latin American relations. Yet instead of better reflection on our common interests in and aspirations for such issues as economic development, human rights, trade, environmental protection, human migration, and drug use, the policy debate too often devolves into debates about drug certification. The U.S. should craft a new drug policy that promotes real partnerships with other countries. The new policy should stem the corrosive effects of the drug trade on democratic institutions throughout the Western Hemisphere. The new policy should embrace the essential principle that U.S. drug control begins at home.