Drug trafficking involves the transport, sale or distribution of illicit drugs. It is a serious crime and can carry prison sentences of up to 40 years. In addition, a conviction can result in substantial fines. Many jurisdictions have diversion programs that allow first-time offenders to avoid jail time or have their case dismissed if they agree to undergo drug treatment.
The illicit drug market is dominated by criminal groups that range from street dealers and gangs to the leaders of multinational cartels. The supply chains for most major drugs are complex and interconnected. The pace of change is accelerating, driven by increasing demand in North America and Europe, as well as the proliferation of new synthetic drugs such as fentanyl.
Corruption is a key element of drug trafficking and undermines the effectiveness of institutions that aim to counter it, including eradication programmes, law enforcement agencies and criminal justice systems. It also fuels the drug trade by making it more profitable for criminals to invest in precursor chemicals, transportation and other elements of the supply chain.
Taking down the leadership of drug trafficking organisations is vital, but so too is dismantling the criminal networks that connect them. This requires focusing on financial investigations to seize assets and disrupt money laundering schemes, as well as targeting lower-level operatives who can provide intelligence and disrupt supply chains. It also demands investment in training and equipping specialised law enforcement units. And it demands an effort to reduce demand through education and prevention programmes, as well as tackling the root causes of drug abuse – poverty, inequality and mental health issues.