Coca Regulation: Overcoming Obstacles and Advancing Global Reform

Transcript Abstract

Coca declassification and regulation face significant challenges, as the plant is predominantly viewed through the lens of the global “drug war” rather than as an issue of sustainable development and economic opportunity. Furthermore, while Europe has traditionally been an ally in advancing key drug policy reforms, its support for coca regulation is waning. This shift is driven by short-term concerns about the growing cocaine market rather than by a long-term, visionary approach to the issue.

Kasia’s presentation will explore strategies to advance an agenda that aligns broader drug policy reform with the coca regulation movement. For instance, permitting the international trade of coca-based products – including its use as an organic fertilizer – could play a pivotal role in addressing global food insecurity while providing rural Andean communities with a vital source of income.