Insurgents, corruption, and weak governance have made Africa a hub for clandestine narcotics shipments to Europe. Drug profits have helped fuel the continent’s wars, including the bloodshed caused by al-Qaeda–linked militants. Better governance is the key to stopping this vicious trade, but several new direct actions by the United States can also help.
About the Author
Robert I. Rotberg
Founding Director of the Intrastate Conflict Program, Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University
Africa Program
The Africa Program works to address the most critical issues facing Africa and U.S.-Africa relations, build mutually beneficial U.S.–Africa relations, and enhance knowledge and understanding about Africa in the United States. The Program achieves its mission through in-depth research and analyses, including our blog Africa Up Close, public discussion, working groups, and briefings that bring together policymakers, practitioners, and subject matter experts to analyze and offer practical options for tackling key challenges in Africa and in U.S.-Africa relations. Read more