Afghanistan, the world's largest opium producer, is experiencing an
explosion in poppy cultivation. In 2003, 150,000 acres were cultivated by 2004 that number rose to 510,000. And with this year’s planting season approaching, poppy cultivation is expected to bring in as much as $7 billion in profits (up from $2.2 in 2004) for Afghan warlords, Taliban fighters and terrorists in Afghanistan and beyond. To combat this terrorist financing, the State Department is asking Congress to earmark $780 million for a counter-narcotics effort that would include $152 million for aerial eradication. Afghan President Hamid Karzai opposes aerial spraying, for fear it would alienate rural voters-- who have no choice but to grow opium since it is economically profitable-- in the spring parliamentary elections.
And while the Bush administration is still drafting its eradication policy, aerial spraying is receiving strong consideration. But the practice, officially deemed environmentally sound, could lead to economic ruin and an armed revolt.
This quote hits the nail on the head:
"Instead of trying to eradicate this year's poppy crop, the U.S. and Afghan governments should focus on providing alternative livelihoods for farmers, improving law enforcement and drug interdiction. Eradication should only be considered once the political climate is more stable... Aerial spraying... would be tantamount to "providing the Taliban with a great recruiting slogan: 'Go with us, or they'll spray you.' "
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