U.S. lethal strikes in Caribbean expose the failures of punitive drug war

The Global Commission on Drug Policy (GCDP) expresses grave concern over recent lethal airstrikes authorised by the United States on boats in the vicinity of Latin America and the Caribbean, which are allegedly linked to drug trafficking. Reports indicate that these strikes have killed more than 80 people since early September. These actions represent a deeply troubling escalation of punitive enforcement practices which raise serious concerns regarding compliance with international law and human rights standards.

The GCDP aligns with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, in calling for an immediate halt to these operations. The High Commissioner has made it clear that these actions “find no justification in international law” and that “these attacks – and their mounting human cost – are unacceptable”. He has further emphasized that the intentional use of lethal force is only lawful “as a last resort against individuals who pose an imminent threat to life”, a condition which, based on available information, was not met.

Addressing organised crime is a legitimate objective, but it should be pursued through strict adherence to international human rights norms and standards.