2013 National Drug Control Strategy

2013 National Drug Control Strategy

Introduction

The ONDCP (Office of National Drug Control Policy)is responsible for the anti-drug programs being run by the US government. Its main aim is to reduce the amount of drugs being consumed by Americans. Along with its efforts to reduce the use of drugs, it also aims to reduce the manufacturing and trafficking of drugs and all forms of violence related to the illegal drug industry. Despite its aim to bring in positive change in the country, it has faced heavy criticism from various groups because it spends billions of dollars each year in order to reduce the consumption of illegal drugs among Americans (Susan, 1998).

This paper will demonstrate the impact that the 2013 US National Drug Control Strategy is having on the consumption of illegal drugs. The pros and cons of the strategy will also be discussed in order to get a clear understanding of the issues that are causing conflicts with groups (Narcotics Division, n.d.). Although the strategy covers several important aspects, some states believe that a different strategy needs to be implemented that would better target the illegal drug industry. Despite the importance of the National Drug Control Strategy, it is being debated at various levels because some think that it is doing more harm than good.

Discussion

President Obama issued the 2013 National Drug Control Strategy recently in order to increase the effectiveness of the ONDCP in combating the use of drugs. This policy expanded the policies that were passed in 2010, 2011, and 2012. The policy also focuses on recovery, treatment, and substance abuse prevention. However, it failed to reduce the claims of the public that the money of tax payers is being spent without and significant improvements. Released on the 24th of April, the 2013 National Drug Control Strategy serves as a map that would help in bringing about major changes in the illegal drug industry in the country. It also aims as fighting the drug manufacturers around the world mainly in Latin America (Banana GATT Case).

A review of the last four years show that although the country has been able to seize thousands of tons of illegal drugs, these substances are still being used widely. Since 2009, over $31 billion has been spent on what is known as the war against drugs. This is a huge amount and considering the fact that this amount was spent at a time when the country was facing a major financial crisis; people were against this war.

From a policing standpoint it is evident that whenever there is an opportunity to commit crime, people do so. Therefore, in order to eliminate the use of drugs, people should be provided an opportunity to consume the substance. It is estimated that on an average, Americans spend around $40 billion each year on drugs. This is a huge figure and there are no signs of it reducing. The drug industry is not only involved in the trade of drugs but also includes kidnappings for ransom, murders, and ...