Show
This study examined the global economic and social consequences of illicit drug abuse and trafficking from the extent of the illicit drug problem to a cost-benefit analysis and the need to maintain social peace.
The illicit drug abuse and trafficking problem has been clear in its relevance to the international community. The continued interest in the economic and social consequences of the illicit drug problem was the underlying premise behind this report published under the United Nations International Drug Control Program (UNDCP). Based on a previous study in 1995 that focused on dealing with illicit markets and the production, distribution, and consumption of illicit drugs, this report expands the information base in measuring the economic and social consequences of drug abuse. The report is divided into three primary sections. The first section offers a look at the extent of the illicit drug problem through its production, distribution, and consumption. In the second section, there is a comprehensive review of the economic consequences through the benefits and costs of drug abuse and trafficking, work, employment and productivity, prices and income, trade and balance of payments, and finance and investment. The third and final section discusses the social consequences of drug abuse and trafficking in relation to family and community, health, education, environment, and crime, corruption and dangers for civil society. This report shows that an assessment of the economic and social consequences of the drug problem can be a difficult one and that the information on the various consequences of drug abuse is unclear. However, it is crucial that the information attained be converted into policy-relevant knowledge. Research results need to be channeled into the process of drug policy development within specific countries, but also on an international level. Figures, references, and appendices I-III
The Federal Government and business community are increasingly recognizing the negative consequences of substance abuse on the U.S. economy and the Nation’s workforce. Abuse of drugs and alcohol is costly for our society and, left untreated, places a burden on our workplace, our healthcare system, and our communities. A number of reports and surveys highlight the detrimental effects substance abuse has on business productivity and competitiveness as it also increases workplace injuries and absenteeism. The following data provide a stark illustration of consequences of drug use in our society. Economic CostsThe economic cost of drug abuse in the United States was estimated at $193 billion in 2007,1 the last available estimate. This value includes:
Labor Force
Turnover and Absenteeism
School Performance
Resources Available for Employers to Create a Drug‐Free WorkplacePreventing drug use in the workplace and supporting employees in recovery are vital to ensuring a healthy, safe, and productive workforce. The Federal Government provides a number of resources to help employers create an alcohol and drug‐free policy for their companies: Drug Free Workplace Advisor Provides information for businesses about how to establish and maintain an alcohol‐ and drug free workplace. http://www.dol.gov/elaws/drugfree.htm Employers' Kit to Developing a Drug‐Free Workplace The Department of Health and Human Services has created this kit to assist employers in setting a drug‐free workplace policy. http://www.drugfreeworkplace.org Working Partners: Guidelines for Developing an Alcohol‐ and Drug‐Free Workplace The Department of Labor has created this guide with the help of industry partners to advise businesses wanting to create a drug‐free workplace policy. http://www.dol.gov/workingpartners/welcome.html State and Territory Laws Substance Abuse Information Database Learn about workplace substance‐abuse issues and develop drug‐free workplace programs. http://www.dol.gov/asp/programs/drugs/said/default.asp Training and Educational Materials Free posters, brochures, and presentation materials. http://www.dol.gov/asp/programs/drugs/workingpartners/materials/materials.asp Download PDF |