NCJ Number
238616
Date Published
July 2011
Length
162 pages
Annotation
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) presents its second report on worldwide flows of Afghan opiates, as well as trafficking in component chemicals used to turn opium into heroin.
Abstract
The report expresses concern about the increasing use of Africa as a way-station for Afghan heroin shipments to Europe, North America, and Oceania. This is causing an increase in heroin consumption in Africa, a region that is generally unprepared to treat drug users and counter the corrupting effects of drug money. The findings of this report indicate areas that require more attention. It advises that the largest flows of heroin, opium, and component chemicals could be reduced by strengthening border controls at the most vulnerable points, such as along Afghanistan's border with Pakistan's Baluchistan Province. Interdiction rates could be improved by increasing the capacity of authorities to monitor and search shipping containers in airports, seaports, and dry ports at key transit points and in destination countries. Also, building capacity and fostering intelligence-sharing between ports and law enforcement authorities in key countries and regions would strengthen interdiction efforts for both opiates and component chemicals. In addition, improving security, the rule of law, and rural development are necessary for the achievement of sustainable efforts to reduce poppy cultivation and poverty in Afghanistan. In addition to interdiction and prevention efforts that target opiate and heroin accessibility, a balanced strategy is required that gives equal weight to counteracting the demand for opiates. Heroin-consuming countries must do more to provide treatment and health-related services for drug users that will assist them in breaking their addiction, thus reducing demand. The UNODC pledges to continue collecting and analyzing relevant data and assisting in building the research capacity of national institutions and governments, including those of Afghanistan and Pakistan. Numerous tables, figures, and maps and appended study methodology