ABSTRACT
Measures taken nationally and internationally to reduce drug abuse and trafficking have yet to yield more universally visible and decisive results. Consequently, the validity and appropriateness of the drug control measures that governments have agreed upon in international conventions and resolutions have continued to be questioned. The drug abuse and trafficking situation, which is accompanied by violence and corruption, remains grim, but valid alternatives to present policies that would meaningfully reverse the situation have not yet been found. Worldwide efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking must be continuous, balanced and administered in an internationally concerted manner, in order for further positive results to be achieved. Moreover, it is clear that drug abuse is closely linked to political, social and economic problems, such that progress in these areas will undeniably contribute to the solution of problems of drug abuse. In a number of countries positive developments have been reported, and these should be more carefully studied and discussed, so that successful experiences in one country can be considered by others.
