Drugs, Borders, and Deception
The readings centered on drug wars and the politics that come with them. Like the works from other weeks, these articles discussed the militarization of security. It contributed to prior dialogue by providing examples of how newfound power leads to government corruption, potentially excessive categorization of what counts as a drug, and failure to truly address the underlying issues. Harshening laws does not assure eradicating the drug business, especially if it pushes the drug traffickers into areas where it will be easier for them to conduct their business.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/04/11/drug-smuggler-placing-job-ads_n_1418348.html
I found this article, about the new tactics of drug traffickers, really interesting. It discussed the unsuspecting body as a site of deception at the borders. People advertise positions as drivers in Mexican news advertisements. When people take these jobs, they unknowingly drive trucks filled with drugs over the border. According to an assistant special agent in charge of investigations for ICE in San Diego, “The tactic lowers expenses and, they hope, makes drivers appear less nervous when questioned by border inspectors.” United States authorities have fought back with media plugs and public service announcements that warn against this phenomenon. What fascinates me about this is how it represents an extension of border tensions, and I ask what the next form of border deception and combating it will be?
http://hondurasweekly.com/crime,-violence-and-anemic-diplomacy-plague-americas-201204155070/
This opinion piece discusses the role of government in the drug wars. It discusses American’s quick jump to tactical moves but fewer strides for strategic thought. The piece also discusses the importance of Latin American involvement in solving its drug problems that often lead to other crimes, such as human trafficking. It painted the concept of drug wars as complex, multi-faceted, and as a problem that goes far beyond border policing.
An additional question I pose is whether or not it is worth it to stop American involvement in the drug war at this point in time.
-Justine
