Argentina’s Economic Crisis Fuels Rise in Cocaine Use Among Young People

The Devastating Impact of Poverty and Lack of Opportunities

Argentina’s economic crisis has led to a surge in cocaine use among young people, particularly in marginalized neighborhoods. Social leaders in these areas attribute this rise to the lack of work opportunities and poverty, which have created a sense of hopelessness and desperation.

The Recruitment of Young People by Criminal Organizations

• Economic necessity: Many young people are being recruited by criminal organizations to sell drugs due to their economic necessity.
• Lack of alternatives: The absence of viable job opportunities has left many young people with no choice but to turn to drug trafficking as a means of survival.

The Economic Crisis and the Cocaine Market

The devaluation of the local currency against the US dollar is expected to have significant implications for the cocaine market in Argentina. This could lead to changes in supply and demand, potentially affecting both consumers and producers.

Potential Consequences

• Shifts in supply: The devaluation of the peso may make it more difficult for drug cartels to purchase cocaine from abroad.
• Changes in consumer behavior: A severe economic crisis can affect consumer markets, leading some individuals to opt for lower-quality or more expensive drugs due to financial constraints.

Combating Complex Crime Organizations

Addressing the issue of complex crime organizations requires significant investment and time. The current government’s view on the role of the state may hinder efforts to address this issue effectively.

Challenges Ahead

• Combating organized crime: Complex crime organizations pose a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies, which require significant resources and expertise to combat.
• Addressing underlying issues: To effectively tackle the issue of cocaine use among young people, it is essential to address the underlying social and economic issues that contribute to this problem.