A United Nations report released on Thursday has emphasized the importance of not mischaracterizing organized crime groups, such as drug cartels and gangs, as terrorist organizations. Authored by Ben Saul, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights while countering terrorism, the report cautions against reigniting a “war on narco-terrorism” that might infringe upon human rights. According to the report, these groups, though they pose threats to life and security, should be confronted through legal frameworks designed for organized crime rather than counter-terrorism measures.
Saul asserts that while organized crime can instill fear or exert governmental influence, its primary motive—profit—necessitates a different legal approach than terrorism, which is driven by political or ideological motivations. He advocates for improved crime management strategies, such as enhancing law enforcement capabilities, anti-corruption initiatives, financial investigations, and international cooperation, alongside better regulation of military-grade firearms. Furthermore, addressing socio-economic factors like poverty and inadequate public services is crucial to preventing individuals from joining criminal groups.
The report highlights that in recent years, labeling organized crime entities as terrorist organizations has led to the deployment of extraordinary powers and increasingly military-like responses. One example mentioned is the ‘Shield of the Americas’ initiative, a U.S.-led coalition aimed at combating transnational crime and narco-terrorism. However, Saul cautions that these securitized measures have often failed to curtail drug trafficking and, in some instances, have exacerbated violence.
Militarized responses have also raised human rights concerns, with reports of severe violations such as arbitrary killings and detentions, enforced disappearances, and restrictions on freedoms and rights of indigenous communities. Saul’s analysis is supported by historical data showing that prolonged states of emergency in the Americas have not achieved lasting reductions in drug-related crime.
The report calls for a fresh approach, suggesting that states focus on reducing drug demand through education, public health initiatives, harm-reduction strategies, and legislation aimed at regulating drugs to cut criminal profits. The ongoing debate on the subject reflects broader international concerns about balancing security and human rights, as discussed in forums including the United Nations.