Colombia's New Drug Policy Shifts Focus Amidst Changing Global Drug War Dynamics

Colombia has announced a new national drug policy, with President Gustavo Petro underlining the changing dynamics of the global drug war, emphasizing a shift in U.S. policies.

Petro stated that the new drug policy won't rely on imprisoning peasants. "The goal is to ensure that peasants and ethnic communities can prosper, showing the world how a policy that is not based on bars, that is not based on extraditions, that is not based on state corruption or repression, can be more effective," per an official announcement.

See Also: Colombian Cocaine Nears Oil Revenue: War On Drugs Failure And Rural Inequality Amplify The Equation

Petro Exposes U.S. Cannabis Hypocrisy

As reported by Marijuana Moment, during his speech, Petro recounted his visit to New York City, where he noted the scent of marijuana in the air, calling out the "enormous hypocrisy" of legal cannabis sales in the country that initiated the global war on drugs.

"Marijuana is sold today in Times Square," Petro said. "It smelled on all the streets, all the way around the corner, and they sold it…like any other product. I suppose they charge taxes, and that New York City or the state of New York lives partially from them."

Petro pointed out that the U.S. played a significant role in globalizing the war on drugs over 50 years ago, leading to countless incarcerations and violence due to drug illegality.

See Also: Colombian Lawmakers Approve Marijuana Legalization Bill, Clearing First Hurdle Of Eight Debates

Colombia's New National Drug Policy

• Unveiled on October 3, Colombia's drug policy aims to reduce the country's cocaine production by 43%, mitigate the environmental consequences of illicit drug production, minimize drug-related violence and criminal enforcement, and prioritize the inclusion, social protection, and care of drug users.
• It also seeks to break the cycles of poverty, violence and criminal prosecution in drug-producing regions, fostering a prosperous peasant economy that allows young Colombians to pursue education and careers.

Read the full story here at Marijuana Moment.

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Image by El Planteo