Attempts at interdiction and eradication of foreign crops have been costly and unsuccessful. Attempts to suppress the drug supply will not succeed as long as the U.S. public demand for illegal drugs continues and profits run high. U.S. government funding for anti-drug efforts in Latin American has increased more than 150 percent over the last 10 years. Yet by the State Department's estimates, worldwide coca cultivation is 11.7 percent higher, and opium production has doubled over that time period. 40 percent of addicts who needed treatment in 1998 received it.
Document argues that a major factor in reducing drug abuse is cutting the supply of illegal drugs.
Feature examines the government's policy of fighting the drug war by eliminating supply when studies show that offering treatment to users is more effective and cost efficient. Despite a drop in drug abuse, illegal drugs keep finding their way into the country. The DEA enforces the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States. Drug Policy Foundation Non-profit organization supporting alternatives to current national drug policies. A private, non-profit educational organization dedicated to disseminating information about preventing crime and improving the quality of the U.S. justice system.