In recent times, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) presented a revealing report titled ‘Synthetic Drugs in East and Southeast Asia: Latest Developments and Challenges’. Surprisingly, this report claims that Covid-19 induced lockdowns and restrictions are unlikely to have any substantial effect on the illicit drug supply. Despite seeing a statistical reduction in drug seizures due to movement restrictions, the report argues that there’s no real change in terms of supply.
Shifting of Government Priorities and Resources
One of the fundamental issues addressed in this report is the shifting of governments’ priorities and resources to tackle the pandemic which could threaten efforts to strengthen drug prevention and treatment programmes.
No Direct Correlation between Covid-19 and Drug Activities
Interestingly, the report clarifies that not every fluctuation in terms of drug seizures, prices, drug-related arrests, or deaths in the coming months would be a direct or indirect consequence of the outbreak.
Active Organised Crime Groups Remain Flexible
The report also highlights the adaptability of organized crime groups, who have shown remarkable flexibility responding to shortages of supplies and have elevated risk levels on certain trafficking routes.
Local Capacities Meeting Drug Demand
Methamphetamine (also called meth), being the main synthetic drug of concern in the region, was found to be manufactured, trafficked, and consumed without the dependence on global supply chains.
The Indian Context
India reported a considerable rise in seizures of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), most of which are suspected to be meth. This spike may be attributed to increased meth trafficking from the Golden Triangle towards Bangladesh, with some routes cutting across India. The maritime trafficking routes from Myanmar along the Andaman Sea are also suspected to play a role, with some crossing Indian territorial waters.
The Golden Crescent
The Golden Crescent region of South Asia, comprising Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan, is a crucial global site for opium production and distribution.
Challenges in Drug Control
Control over drug trafficking poses several challenges, including porous borders that ease cross-border movements, evolving methods of trafficking that offset the impact of reduced trade, and limited government control in high-volume trafficking regions like the Golden Triangle.
The Unaffected Supply of Precursor Chemicals
The supply of precursor chemicals appears to remain unaffected as major organized crime groups source these chemicals through direct diversion from industry, rather than illicit overseas trade channels.
The Consequences of Surging Supplies: Lowest Price Level & Increased Crime
The consequence of this surge in supply is a drop in meth prices, making it more affordable, and potentially increasing its use. Economic hardships and altered methods of accessing drugs may lead to increased crime.
Additional Risks for Vulnerable Populations
The shifting of funding priorities and resultant difficulties in accessing programmes and services could expose vulnerable populations of drug users to additional risks, especially if treatment providers are occupied with dealing with the pandemic.
About the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
UNODC, established in 1997 and renamed in 2002, acts as an office for Drug Control and Crime Prevention, merging the UN International Drug Control Program (UNDCP) and the Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Division of the UN Office at Vienna. The UNODC is also responsible for publishing the World Drug Report.
The Way Forward
To address these challenges, additional efforts would be required at all levels — national, regional, and international. A better understanding of changing drug markets due to the pandemic is essential through careful analysis of methods and trends. More robust institutionalized strategies and procedures to combat illicit drug supply and usage must be established to ensure their efficiency even during challenging times like a pandemic or any other crisis.