Role Culture Plays in China's Illicit Drug/Chemical Foreign Policy

摘要

Chinese culture plays a major role in the formation of China's policies regarding its exportation of illicit drugs and precursor chemicals. China is a major producer of illicit drugs and precursor chemicals. The trafficking of illicit drugs is a transnational crime that affects the United States, China, and ultimately the world. The Chinese have been slow to cooperate with U.S. law enforcement officers regarding the trafficking of these drugs/chemicals that include acetic anhydride, ephedrine/pseudoephedrine, and steroids. To better understand China's lack of cooperation with U.S. law enforcement agencies, one must look at Chinese culture to better understand the foundation of their policies. There are numerous variables one can consider in determining how China formulates its policies. Confucianism, the 'Century of Shame,' and Mao Zedong have been extremely influential in laying the groundwork for Chinese policy decision making. In addition to cultural influences, corruption's role in China's relations with U.S. law enforcement authorities must be addressed. Recognizing the cultural elements within China helps drug law enforcement investigators understand China's reluctance to cooperate with the United States in efforts to combat transnational drug trafficking that originates in China. The author concludes that understanding Chinese culture and the corruption operating there give U.S. law enforcement agencies a better understanding of Chinese reactions to requests for cooperation. It might also assist the United States in devising policies to circumvent any initial Chinese resistance. Overall, enlightened U.S. law enforcement officials may experience better cooperation and more success in their attempts to stymie the illicit Chinese chemicals entering the United States.