International Drug Policies: Eradication of Narcotic Crops

The eradication of narcotic crops is central to global efforts to reduce the misuse of the major plant-based drugs. The aim of eradication is to reduce the illicit cultivation of narcotic crops, and the supply and use of drugs extracted from them. [Page 396]Eradication efforts encompass both the destruction of crops and the prevention of their initial cultivation. This often entails coupling eradication efforts with development activities as most narcotic crop cultivation occurs in underdeveloped parts of the world. To date, eradication efforts have met with limited success.

Where eradication has occurred, those involved in narcotic crop cultivation have adopted a range of “adaptive responses.” Negative consequences of eradication include increased levels of cultivation in both targeted and other areas, local resistance and social unrest, and ...