Policy Paradox: Implications of U.S. Drug Control Policy for Jamaica

Abstract

U.S. drug control policies impose supply reduction targets on source and transit nations without regard for their social, economic, or political environments. Simultaneously, immigration policies deport drug felons to these countries. This article advances the argument that these policies have displaced responsibility for U.S. crime problems. As a result, there is displacement of criminal activities to areas of least resistance, with drug transit nations being disproportionately affected. The article addresses, in part, the paucity of drug policy literature on the Caribbean drug transit region. It discusses the nexus between U.S. drug and immigration policies and the resulting consequences for Jamaica, a drug transit country. Jamaica is of special interest because of its long-standing presence on the U.S. drug policy agenda and its stereotyping in journalistic discussions.