Despite Rift With U.S., Can Colombia Revolutionize Global Drug Policy?

Despite Rift With U.S., Can Colombia Revolutionize Global Drug Policy?

The world’s top cocaine producer takes the lead on reforming international drug policy.

Gustavo Petro hunches over a desk, leaning into a mic. September 19, 2025, 12:38 PM Comment icon View Comments ( )

Earlier this year, world leaders agreed on a landmark resolution to review the global drug policy regime during the 68th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs in Vienna. For more than six decades, international drug policy has been largely shaped by the U.S.-led “War on Drugs,” which has prioritized strict controls and punitive enforcement.

Now, there is increasing global recognition that existing policies have failed. Both drug production and consumption are higher than ever. In 2023