Why it matters: Colombia has set a new record for cultivating the coca leaf and producing cocaine, according to a United Nations report. This highlights the ongoing challenge faced by Colombia in addressing drug production, as well as the economic and social factors that contribute to its cultivation.
What they are saying: Colombia’s potential cocaine output increased by 24% in 2022, reaching the highest level reported since the UN began monitoring in 2001. While the government has promised incentives and subsidies to move farmers away from coca production, these measures have yet to be implemented. President Gustavo Petro has criticized the war on drugs and proposed alternative approaches to tackling the cocaine problem, such as focusing on drug gang leadership and recognizing drug consumption as a public health issue.
The big picture: Colombia is the world’s largest coca cultivator, producing 60% of the world’s cocaine. The increase in coca cultivation and cocaine production presents a challenge for the Colombian government and highlights the complex socio-economic factors that contribute to drug production. The involvement of armed groups and the violence associated with drug trafficking further complicate efforts to address the issue.
What to watch: It will be essential to monitor the actions taken by the Colombian government to address the increase in coca cultivation and cocaine production. The implementation of promised incentives and subsidies to encourage farmers to transition away from coca farming, as well as efforts to combat drug gang leadership, will be crucial in reducing cocaine production and addressing the associated violence and societal harm.
My take: The increase in coca cultivation and cocaine production in Colombia illustrates the persistent challenges faced in combating drug trafficking. While efforts to implement alternative approaches, such as focusing on drug gang leadership, are commendable, addressing the underlying socio-economic factors that drive coca cultivation will be essential for long-term success. Additionally, international cooperation and support will be crucial in assisting Colombia’s efforts to combat drug production and the associated violence and harm.
