Today, Explained
Cocaine problems
Jan 17, 2024
Ana Lankes, a correspondent for The Economist focusing on Ecuador's drug violence, joins Will Freeman, a Council on Foreign Relations fellow, to unpack the country's alarming shift towards a narco state. They discuss the escape of notorious gang leader Fito, which triggered chaos and violence. The rising cocaine trade is examined, highlighting new trafficking routes and the effects on Europe. They also address the interconnectedness of organized crime, money laundering, and the state's struggle to maintain order amidst epidemic levels of violence.
25:24
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Quick takeaways
- Ecuador's strategic location has made it a major hub for cocaine trafficking, with rising demand in Europe fueling the surge in drug trafficking.
- Weak political leadership and corruption have allowed gangs to flourish in Ecuador, requiring strong anti-crime measures and cutting ties between criminal actors and state officials.
Deep dives
Escalating Cocaine Trade and Its Impact
The podcast episode explores the escalating cocaine trade in Ecuador and its impact on both Europe and the United States. The increasing amounts of cocaine reaching European ports, particularly the port of Antwerp, are flooding the streets of Europe. This surge in drug trafficking has also led to a rise in violence, causing Ecuadorians to flee to the United States. The situation in Ecuador is dire, as drug gangs fight for control over ports, streets, and prisons, leading to concerns about the country becoming a narco state.
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