Abstract

Illicit drug trade is an integral part of the recent history in Afghanistan and Colombia. The past few decades have seen narcotics have severe social, political and economic impact in both countries. This paper outlines the development of the narcotics industries in each country and synthesizes the commonalities that have arisen from this shared phenomenon. It seeks to highlight lessons that Afghanistan and Colombia can learn from each other and concludes with recommendations on a way forward from the current impasse.   

 

Saurabh Sati spent a few years researching the dynamics of illicit drug trade at United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and is currently pursuing an MBA at the University of Toronto.

 

Andrea Mancini is a Programme Officer at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, with work experience in Latina America, Africa and Asia