Colombian President Gustavo Petro Calls for Overhaul of Latin America’s Drug Policy

During the Ibero-American summit held in the Dominican Republic, Colombian President Gustavo Petro made a passionate plea for Latin America to change its approach to drugs and adopt a stronger prevention strategy. In his speech, he signaled a potential break from the hard-line stance on narcotics that Colombia has held for the past 50 years.

President Petro criticized the current drug policy as a “disaster,” arguing that narcotic cartels have become more powerful than many states in the region. He cited Haiti as an example of the devastating impact of drug trafficking and emphasized that drugs cannot be defeated with war, rifles, and death.

The Colombian President called for significant changes in Colombia’s drug policies, which have included U.S.-funded efforts to eradicate coca plants. He emphasized the need for profound change in a country plagued by persistent economic inequality, as is happening in many other Latin American countries.

President Petro is one of the 12 heads of state and government participating in the Ibero-American summit, which brings together delegations from 22 countries in the region. This is his first time attending the event, where he delivered a seven-minute speech on Latin American integration.

The summit participants are expected to consider a wide range of issues, including food security, environmental protection, and digital rights. However, President Petro‘s call for a major overhaul of Latin America’s drug policy is likely to be one of the most significant topics discussed.