SHOULD DRUGS BE BANNED - Essay Example

Production of illegal drugs occurs mainly in underdeveloped countries where poor farmers are exploited by drug traffickers. Drug production business causes several environmental damages and involves a high rate of corruption and criminal activities. Recent technological advancements like electronic money laundering have enabled drug traffickers to earn huge profits. Even in those countries which are economically benefitted by the drug production business the problems created by these drug traffickers more often debilitates these benefits and the growth of the country.

Among the drugs the illegal trade of cocaine and marijuana has spread from urban cities to small rural towns. The use of these drugs has stabilized at high rates and is affecting the health and safety of the American population. It has also increased the rate of violent and criminal activities associated with drug trafficking. Trafficking of these drugs by Mexican, Columbian and Canadian organizations has increased over the past years. In addition media, internet and groups favoring legalization of these drugs have increased the popularity and sale of these drugs (Almanac of Policy Issues, 2004).

On a health basis large consumption of illicit drugs has adverse effects on the health such as birth defects, poor performance in academics, negative psychological effects such as anger, excitement and aggression, neurological problems in case of drug overdose and involvement in criminal and violent activities. Consumption of harder drugs such as crack cocaine is associated with severe psychological and pharmacological effects and has increased the emergency hospital admissions related to its use.

Consumption of illegal drugs also affects social relations of individuals and increases the rate of accidents and other disasters. It also causes unnecessary financial burden both for the individual and the government which spends for police, military, and expenditure for treatment and welfare programs. Another major concern in the recent years has been the rise of HIV related infections among those using drug injections (UNRISD, 1994). Drug trade can be controlled by law and order measures, effective government regulatory policies and strategies, provision of alternative opportunities of income generation for farmers involved in the production of these drugs, implementing harsh sanctions on consumers, and designing effective awareness strategies can all help to reduce the demand for illicit drugs (UNRISD, 1994).

In his message against drug abuse and trafficking, the Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon has called for a concerted effort by governments, law and order, society and the media to promote greater awareness about the potential harmful effects of these drugs. He further added that providing alternative work opportunities for farmers could help bring about a change. Ban also cited the drug rehabilitation program offered at a center in northern Italy which had changed the lives of nearly 1200 men and women (Chakwe, 2013).

In an earlier report Ban cited the pathetic state of the Afghan people, a majority of whom are involved in drug production and trafficking and called for the need of vigilant law enforcement measures to