THE EFFICACY OF FOREIGN ASSISTANCE IN COUNTER NARCOTICS

Abstract

This paper analyzes the effectiveness of foreign assistance pursuant to national security objectives. Counter narcotics initiatives in Colombia are utilized in a case-study approach that conducts an analysis of the different components of foreign assistance that were designed to curb the flow of illicit narcotics into the United States. The focus for this study involved the estimated coca cultivation quantities from the 32 different departments in Colombia. The application of assistance applied toward eradication, interdiction, and alternative development programs are delineated in their efficacy toward achieving the desired end state. Additional analysis is made for six of the top coca-cultivating departments in Colombia. Economic factors are also considered as a contributing factor in the overall coca cultivating reduction within Colombia from 2000 to 2011. The intent of this study is to determine whether foreign assistance is an effective tool for achieving security objectives in counter drug policy. Additionally, this thesis aims to provide insight into which components of foreign assistance are more effective at achieving overall illicit crop reductions. Furthermore, this thesis intends to provide recommendations for the future application of foreign assistance pursuant to counter narcotics policy.