Economic impacts of drugs

Abstract

This article examines the various effects of drug use and illicit drug trafficking on the economy. The study focuses on the losses that nations incur as a result of drug abuse, whether through decreased productivity, increased healthcare costs, or the rise in crime rates associated with drug use.

The research explores the impact of drugs on the workforce, highlighting how addiction affects work capacity and productivity, leading to higher unemployment rates. It also details the burdens drugs place on healthcare systems due to addiction treatment and drug-related diseases, driving up healthcare costs.

Furthermore, the study discusses the role of drugs in fueling organized crime and increasing government spending on security and justice, as well as the impact of the drug black market on the formal economy by reducing tax revenues.

The research concludes with recommendations on how to address these impacts through comprehensive policies aimed at prevention, treatment, and strengthening security efforts to combat drug trafficking.