War on drugs
War on Drugs
The War on Drugs is a global campaign, led by the U.S. federal government, with the aim of reducing the illegal drug trade by prohibiting drugs, military aid, and military intervention.
Pronunciation
- /wɔːr ɒn drʌɡz/
Etymology
The term "War on Drugs" was first used by President Richard Nixon in 1971 to describe his administration's campaign to combat the use of illegal drugs. The term "war" is used metaphorically to refer to a concerted effort or campaign against something harmful.
Related Terms
- Drug prohibition law: Laws that prohibit the possession, use, production, and distribution of certain substances.
- Substance abuse: The harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs.
- Drug trafficking: The global illicit trade involving the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, and sale of substances which are subject to drug prohibition laws.
- Narcotics: A class of substances that reduce pain, induce sleep, and can alter mood or behavior. They include both legal substances like morphine and illegal substances like heroin.
- Decriminalization: The act of removing criminal sanctions against an act, article, or behavior. In the context of the War on Drugs, it often refers to the removal of criminal penalties for drug use and possession.
History
The War on Drugs began in the United States in 1971 when President Richard Nixon declared drug abuse to be "public enemy number one". This was followed by increased spending on drug control agencies and measures such as mandatory sentencing and no-knock warrants.
Criticism
Critics of the War on Drugs argue that it has failed to achieve its stated objectives and has led to negative outcomes such as mass incarceration, racial disparities in drug enforcement, and the creation of violent drug cartels. Some advocates argue for a public health approach to drug use, including harm reduction strategies and drug decriminalization.
See Also
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