Colombian President Petro Claims Cocaine’s Illegality Is Geographically Motivated

Bogotá, Colombia (VINnews)– In a set of provocative remarks that have reignited debate over global drug policy, Colombian President Gustavo Petro asserted that cocaine is deemed illegal primarily because it is produced in Latin America. “Cocaine is only illegal because it’s made in Latin America,” Petro stated during a recent press conference, challenging long-held assumptions about the drug’s inherent dangers.

A Controversial Comparison

Petro further drew a comparison between cocaine and a commonly consumed alcoholic beverage, remarking, “Cocaine is no worse than whiskey, that’s what scientists are analyzing.” The president’s comments suggest that scientific inquiry may eventually support a reevaluation of how society classifies and regulates certain psychoactive substances. According to Petro, the stigma surrounding cocaine is less about its pharmacological effects and more about geopolitical and economic interests.

Context Behind the Remarks

The Colombian president’s statements come at a time when Latin America, and the world at large, is reexamining drug policies and the criminalization of substances that have been part of cultural and social practices for decades. Critics of current drug policies argue that decades of prohibition have not only failed to curb consumption but have also contributed to widespread violence, corruption, and social injustice in drug-producing regions.

Petro’s remarks are seen by supporters as a bold step towards initiating policy reforms that could lead to regulated markets and harm reduction strategies. “If we start comparing substances based on objective scientific analysis rather than historical prejudice or economic interests, we might be able to develop more effective public health policies,” Petro implied.