Opium's Orphans: The 200-Year History of the War on Drugs

The first full history of drug prohibition and the 'war on drugs,' Opium s Orphans reveals that drug suppression was born of historical accident and not rational design. The war on drugs did not originate in Europe or the US, but in China, and it has not succeeded, with opioid deaths and cartel violence running rampant. It is time to go back to the drawing board.

Format: Hardback
Length: 440 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2022
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Opium's Orphans is the first comprehensive history of drug prohibition and the 'war on drugs.' A no-holds-barred but balanced account, it demonstrates that drug suppression emerged by historical accident rather than rational design. The war on drugs did not originate in Europe or the US, and even less with President Nixon, but in China. The aftermath of two Opium Wars, followed by Western attempts to atone for them, gave rise to an anti-narcotics order that has now spread worldwide. However, has the war on drugs achieved its goals? As opioid deaths and cartel violence continue to surge, contention grows louder, and marijuana is slated for legalization, Opium's Orphans argues that it is time to reassess our approach.

Introduction:
Drug prohibition and the 'war on drugs' have been dominant global phenomena for decades. The United Nations estimates that approximately 25 million people worldwide are currently drug users, and the illicit drug trade is worth an estimated $320 billion annually. Despite these staggering numbers, the war on drugs has been criticized for its failure to achieve its stated goals and for its negative impact on human rights, public health, and the global economy.

The Origins of Drug Prohibition:
The history of drug prohibition can be traced back to the late 19th century, when opium was first introduced to China. The Chinese government quickly became addicted to the drug, and it soon became a major source of revenue for the country. However, the opium trade also led to widespread addiction and social problems, which prompted the Chinese government to implement drug prohibition in 1906.

The Global Spread of Drug Prohibition:
Drug prohibition quickly spread to other parts of the world, particularly during the 20th century. The United States, in particular, became heavily involved in the war on drugs, with the passage of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) in 1970. The CSA classified drugs into different schedules, with Schedule I drugs being the most dangerous and addictive. The war on drugs was also supported by the United Nations, which adopted the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs in 1961.

The Failure of Drug Prohibition:
Despite the global efforts to combat drug use and trafficking, drug prohibition has failed to achieve its stated goals. The war on drugs has led to the incarceration of millions of people, the destruction of families, and the spread of HIV/AIDS and other drug-related diseases. Moreover, the war on drugs has also fueled organized crime, violence, and corruption, particularly in Latin America and South Asia.

The Impact of Drug Prohibition on Human Rights:
Drug prohibition has violated the human rights of millions of people worldwide. The war on drugs has led to the arbitrary detention and torture of drug users and traffickers, as well as the denial of access to essential medical care for those who need it. Moreover, drug prohibition has led to the disproportionate punishment of marginalized communities, such as Black and Latinx people, who are more likely to be arrested and incarcerated for drug-related offenses.

The Need for a New Approach:
In light of the failure of drug prohibition, there is a growing call for a new approach to drug policy. Some advocates argue for the decriminalization of drug use and possession, while others advocate for the legalization and regulation of certain drugs. However, regardless of the specific approach taken, it is clear that drug prohibition must be replaced with a more effective and humane policy that prioritizes public health and human rights.

Conclusion:
Drug prohibition and the 'war on drugs' have had a devastating impact on millions of people worldwide. The war on drugs has failed to achieve its stated goals and has violated the human rights of countless individuals. It is time for policymakers to take a new approach to drug policy that prioritizes public health and human rights and that addresses the root causes of drug use and trafficking. Only by doing so can we hope to create a safer and more just world for all.

Weight: 754g
Dimension: 173 x 240 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789145588