Skip to main content
Unity supplement
Why the ‘war on drugs’ is in reality a new war on the poor

The New War on the Poor:
The Production of Insecurity in Latin America
by John Gledhill
(Zed Press, £18.99)

THE so-called wars on drug trafficking have attracted much media attention but what lies behind them, and the impact they are having on the lives of ordinary citizens in Latin America, is less well-known.

In this book academic John Gledhill, an acknowledged expert on Latin America who has carried out extensive fieldwork there, seeks to reveal the realities behind the headlines. Although concentrating on Mexico and Brazil, his findings and arguments could be extrapolated throughout the continent.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa speaks during an event to deliver benefits and to decry the protests against diesel price hikes, in Otavalo, Ecuador, September 24, 2025
Latin America / 13 November 2025
13 November 2025

LEE BROWN highlights the latest attempts to undo progressive reforms instated during the presidency of Rafael Correa

Colombia protest
Features / 31 October 2025
31 October 2025

Colombia’s success in controlling the drug trade should be recognised and its sovereignty respected, argues Dr GLORY SAAVEDRA

People gather outside of the United Nations' office in Caracas, Venezuela, for a government-organised rally against foreign interference, October 6, 2025
Latin America / 9 October 2025
9 October 2025

HANK KENNEDY contends that US military attacks in the Caribbean amount to modern piracy driven by Venezuela’s oil wealth

Former Bolivian President Evo Morales participates in an off
Features / 25 February 2025
25 February 2025
After years of struggle in the MAS party, the mass movement of left-wing peasants and workers has founded a new party, with former president Evo Morales as its candidate for the summer’s elections, writes CINDY FORSTER