Pubdate: Tue, 15 Jan 2002
Source: Newsday (NY)
Copyright: 2002 Newsday Inc.
Contact:  http://www.newsday.com/homepage.htm
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/308
Author: Stephen J. Pasierb
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n009/a04.html?1130

CUT DEMAND FOR DRUGS

Robert Sharpe is correct that the Taliban and the Northern Alliance have 
used illicit drugs as a source of profit ["U.S. Should Follow Europe's Lead 
in Drug-Law Reform," Viewpoints, Jan. 3]. But since the use of illicit 
drugs already is responsible for far more American deaths each year than 
terrorism has claimed, the idea of encouraging greater drug use by moving 
to make drugs more acceptable is terribly misguided.

The problem isn't that brutal regimes are selling drugs; it's that people 
are buying them. If no one buys illicit drugs, terrorists can't profit from 
them.

In a new world full of threats to our safety and well-being, many Americans 
are asking, "What can I do to make a difference?" Encouraging our kids to 
reject the use of illicit drugs as a way to dry up a source of profits for 
those who would finance global terrorism is a great start. We've already 
seen the success of such efforts: Regular use of cocaine has dropped 75 
percent since 1985, and overall drug use in America is down roughly 40 
percent over the same period. Perhaps not coincidentally, as drug use has 
plummeted, crime rates have as well.

It's a shame those who favor the legalization of drugs are seeking to 
exploit the tragic events of Sept. 11 to advance their agenda. Let's hope 
that more Americans will adopt a more responsible approach to this subject.

Stephen J. Pasierb

Editor's Note: The writer is president and CEO of Partnership for a 
Drug-Free America.
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