Answer to Question #119513 in English for Shania kumar

Question

Substance abuse is an increasing concern in the Pacific Island nations in this technological era. They are at an increased risk of becoming the new drug trafficking highway. Discuss this concern. Conclusion on the topic

Answer 1

A multibillion-dollar drug operation involving dangerous substances such as methamphetamines and cocaine is increasingly gaining a new route in the Pacific Island nations of Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga, Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia among others. These countries are predominantly known as best holiday destinations rather than narcotic hubs. Most of these illicit substances are conveyed to Australia and New Zealand due to the lucrative markets and high consumption rates.

This new highway that has been devised by narcotic dealers thrives due to weak security measures and systemic flaws, which present minimal hurdles to the business. Importantly, the cartels have drastically minimised air transport due to the robust security measures in the sector coupled with tight custom controls and few direct flights between Australia and Latin America. The cartels use some of the beaches in pacific islands to conceal drugs for further onward conveyance to lucrative destinations.

The net effect of this emerging transit routes presents growing concerns to the Pacific Island countries. For example, there is increased methamphetamine and cocaine addiction in Fiji and her neighbours. Also, cases of crime, gang violence and police corruption are on the rise. With few facilities in terms of rehab amenities, methadone clinics and addiction healthcare experts in these countries, the emerging business could present enormous challenges to the population.

Conclusively, the new drug highway is a growing challenge, which requires urgent attention. Ease of logistics and systemic weaknesses makes the illicit business to thrive in this new route. Various governments in the pacific region must work together to deconstruct the emerging highway for this multibillion-dollar narco-industry.