ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the United State (US) counter-narcotics policy towards the Andes, looking at the emergence of the policy; US projects in the Andean countries and the consequences for the countries involved. It examines how the US has tried to curb the flow of cocaine from the Andes through its foreign narcotics policy. The US drug control policy affected the cocaine industry in the region, the relationship between the US and the Andes, and the domestic political, social and economic situations of the recipient states. It focuses on eradication, interdiction and alternative development, components of US drug control policy because American policy makers believe a three-prong approach is the most effective way to tackle cocaine trafficking. Through the Andean Strategy, the US has been tackling the cocaine trade from various angles, eradication of coca bushes, interdiction of cocaine loads, demolishing criminal groups and providing alternative crops and social infrastructures.
