The Conflict

The impact of drug abuse and drug-related violence in U.S. communities is devastating. Government estimates put the total cost at more than US$110 billion a year. Drug production and trafficking are also a serious threat to Latin American countries, eroding governments and institutions through corruption, fueling political violence and common crime, and distorting local economies.

Political

• Colombia has been engaged in a civil conflict for over 40 years and the Colombian people are faced with severe political violence and the corrosive effects of drug trafficking. The United States has significant national interests in Colombia, including economic interests, and desires to ensure the political and economic stability of the...