The Nexus Between Drug Use, Youth Unemployment, and National Security in West Africa: A Case Study of Liberia By. Robert M. Sammie

Introduction
The interplay between drug use, youth unemployment, and national security represents a critical challenge in West Africa, particularly in Liberia. This nexus is detrimental not only to the individuals directly involved but also to the broader societal fabric and national stability. Liberia, a nation recovering from years of civil conflict, provides a poignant case study to explore these interconnections. This article delves into the complexities of drug use and youth unemployment and their implications for national security in Liberia, drawing on various scholarly sources to provide a comprehensive analysis.

Drug Use and Youth Unemployment in Liberia

Liberia has experienced significant socio-economic challenges, exacerbated by a high rate of youth unemployment. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), youth unemployment in Liberia stands at approximately 85%, one of the highest rates globally (UNDP, 2018). This alarming statistic is a breeding ground for various societal issues, including drug abuse. The lack of employment opportunities leaves many young people disillusioned and vulnerable to engaging in illicit activities, including drug use and trafficking.

Drug use among Liberian youth is both a symptom and a cause of broader socio-economic problems. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports a rising trend in drug consumption among West African nations, with Liberia being significantly affected (UNODC, 2019). The availability of drugs, coupled with high unemployment, creates a vicious cycle that traps many young people in a state of dependency and hopelessness. Drug use not only deteriorates the physical and mental health of the youth but also limits their potential to contribute positively to society, further perpetuating the cycle of poverty and crime.

Moreover, drug use exacerbates the problem of youth unemployment by diminishing employability. Substance abuse often leads to absenteeism, decreased productivity, and an inability to maintain steady employment. Employers are less likely to hire individuals with a history of drug use, further marginalizing these individuals and pushing them towards the fringes of society.

The Impact on National Security

The relationship between drug use, youth unemployment, and national security is multifaceted. On one hand, drug abuse undermines the health and productivity of the youth, who are supposed to be the driving force behind national development. On the other hand, it fuels criminal activities, including drug trafficking, which poses a direct threat to national security. According to the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), drug trafficking in Liberia is often linked with other forms of organized crime, such as human trafficking and arms smuggling, which further destabilize the region (ISS, 2020).

The involvement of unemployed youth in drug-related activities undermines law enforcement efforts and erodes public trust in governmental institutions. This erosion of trust complicates efforts to implement effective security measures and maintain public order. Moreover, the revenue generated from the drug trade often funds insurgent groups and militias, exacerbating internal conflicts and posing a threat to national stability. The Liberian civil wars (1989-1996 and 1999-2003) saw various factions funded by illicit activities, including drug trafficking, which prolonged the conflicts and increased their brutality.

Case Study: Liberia

Liberia's post-conflict recovery has been hampered by the twin problems of youth unemployment and drug use. The Liberian government, in collaboration with international organizations, has taken steps to address these issues, but the challenges remain daunting. For instance, the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) has intensified its efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse through various initiatives, including community policing and public awareness campaigns (LNP, 2021). However, these efforts are often undermined by limited resources and pervasive corruption.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have also played a crucial role in addressing the nexus between drug use and youth unemployment. Programs aimed at vocational training and entrepreneurship have been implemented to provide alternative livelihoods for young people. For example, the Youth Empowerment and Employment Program (YEEP), funded by the World Bank, has provided skills training and job placement services for thousands of Liberian youths (World Bank, 2022). These initiatives are essential in breaking the cycle of unemployment and drug dependency.

Despite these efforts, the road to addressing these intertwined issues is fraught with challenges. The effectiveness of these programs is often limited by insufficient funding, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of coordination among various stakeholders. Furthermore, the stigma associated with drug use continues to hinder the reintegration of affected youths into society.

Policy Recommendations

To effectively tackle the nexus between drug use, youth unemployment, and national security in Liberia, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. Here are several policy recommendations:

1. Integrated Development Programs: There is a need for integrated development programs that not only provide vocational training but also support entrepreneurial ventures among the youth. These programs should be designed to cater to the specific needs and circumstances of Liberian society.

2. Strengthening Law Enforcement: Enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and abuse is crucial.