Colombian President Advocates Global Legalization of Cocaine

Gustavo Petro argues cocaine is no worse than whisky and calls for policy reform to combat illegal trafficking.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro stated that cocaine is not more harmful than whisky, citing scientific analysis to support his claim.
Petro suggested that the global legalization of cocaine could dismantle illegal trade networks and generate funds for public health initiatives.
He argued that cocaine's illegality is politically motivated due to its Latin American origin rather than based on health concerns.
Petro highlighted the growing crisis of synthetic opioids like fentanyl in the United States, contrasting it with Colombia's cocaine production.
Colombia, the world's largest cocaine exporter, produced 2,600 tons in 2023, with the U.S. identified as the primary consumer.