Myanmar has emerged as the world’s largest source of opium in 2023, surpassing Afghanistan, according to a new report by the United Nations. This shift is attributed to a third consecutive year of expanding cultivation fueled by Myanmar’s civil war and a significant decline in opium cultivation in Afghanistan.
Domestic Instability: Political, social, and economic instability resulting from Myanmar’s 2021 coup prompted individuals to turn to poppy farming as an alternative livelihood.
Decline in Afghanistan: Following the Taliban’s ban on drugs in 2022, opium cultivation in Afghanistan plummeted by 95%, leading to a global shift in opium supply to Myanmar.
Jeremy Douglas, the UNODC Regional Representative, expressed concerns about the consequences of opium cultivation expansion. He warned that the ongoing conflict in Myanmar is exacerbating the situation, leading to increased cultivation in remote areas.
As Myanmar takes the lead in global opium production, the situation poses challenges for authorities, international organizations, and efforts to combat the illicit drug trade. Addressing the root causes of opium cultivation, including conflict and instability, becomes crucial in mitigating the impact on communities and preventing further escalation.
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