Pubdate: Wed, 26 Jul 2000
Source: Chicago Tribune (IL)
Copyright: 2000 Chicago Tribune Company
Contact:  435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611-4066
Website: http://www.chicagotribune.com/
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Author: Stephen Young

DRUG PROBLEM

ROSELLE -- It was refreshing to read a perspective on Colombia written by a 
Colombian ("The Colombian Nightmare," Perspective, July 16). Francisco 
Santos makes many important points, but one of the most crucial is 
mentioned only briefly.

"In the mid-1970s, when the Colombian government militarized the fight 
against marijuana drug traffickers found a product more profitable and 
easier to transport and distribute--coca," Santos wrote. This should be a 
stark reminder that one consequence of trying to eradicate a particular 
drug is the substitution of a more potent drug.

While I know it won't happen, let's imagine the military aid to Colombia 
will end the cocaine trade. The makers, sellers and users who emerge from 
the wreckage will simply switch over to methamphetamine, a stimulant that 
has a longer effect, and is cheaper and easier to produce. And, when the 
war against methamphetamine is escalated, something even more dangerous 
will take its place.

Regardless of the destruction caused by the drug war, it will not end drug 
problems. It can only make them worse.

Stephen Young
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