Providing a comprehensive analysis of drug misuse, dependence and the ways in which different parts of the world have responded to these problems, this volume examines aspects of the contemporary drug problem, the related debate and the way in which society is responding to it. Various controversial issues are covered, taking into account the way in which pressure groups would like to see changes in national and/or international drug control regimes. The book is drawn from extensive studies carried out by the UN over the last 15 years; each of the themes has been examined by a group of experts and lends itself to debate. Among the many topics discussed are: the legalization of drugs, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, the macro and micro economy, supply and demand reduction and money laundering. The book will be a valuable resource for professionals and academics in law enforcement, health, social services, behavioural sciences, pharmacy and drug regulatory agencies.

Contents: Preface; Introduction; International drug control system; Legalization of internationally controlled drugs; Drugs and the importance of demand reduction; Evaluation of the effectiveness of the international drug control treaties; Money laundering; Drug abuse and criminal justice; Preventing drug abuse in an environment of illicit drug promotion; International control of drugs: past, present and future; Freedom from pain and suffering; Overconsumption of internationally controlled drugs; Globalization and new technologies: challenges to drug law enforcement in the 21st century; Illicit drugs and economic development; Drugs, crime and violence: the microlevel impact; Integration of supply and demand reduction strategies: moving beyond a balanced approach; Alternative development and legitimate livelihoods; Internationally controlled drugs and the unregulated market; Index.