4.2.1X Global networks and flows: Narcotics

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Major global trade involving the distribution of substances that are subject to drug prohibition laws

Question 2

Problem

Answer 2

Estimated to be worth $300 billion+ and is 1% of total global trade

These drugs are often produced in regions with favourable conditions for cultivation such as Afghanistan due to the political and environmental states of the area

Question 3

Afghanistan’s role

Answer 3

The world’s largest producer of opium, used in heroin

Believed to make above $60 billion a year

The country’s rugged terrain, weak governance, political instability and Taliban’s involvement provides an environment for drug trade to thrive financially

Question 4

Flows

Answer 4

Cultivation of drugs is more prominent in LICs due to the vulnerable populations that are in desperate need of economic opportunities, along with where corruption and weak governance is present

Main destinations of drugs are HICs such as the US and Europe due to the large consumer markets in HICs

Time-space convergence has resulted in an increased speed and reliability of transportation and communication, allowing for greater efficiency and coordination, enabling drug traffickers to move drugs across borders more effectively.