However, the UN’s International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), which checks implementation of global drug treaties, says that Bolivia is threatening international drug controls. A number of countries – including the UK, the US, Italy, Sweden, the Netherlands and Russia – opposed Bolivia’s demands. The UK told the UN that it “respects the cultural importance of the coca leaf in Bolivia,” but it adds: “The United Kingdom is … worried that the exemption could lead to increases in coca production and – most importantly – the amount of coca that goes into the cocaine trade. As a result, the exemption would weaken … the global effort to tackle the drugs trade.”
What stance are countries like the UK, the US, and Italy taking on Bolivia’s request?
They are opposed to it They are supporting it out of respect for the cultural importance of coca They do not believe the INCB is authorized to discuss it They do not wish to be involved in Bolivian drug policy