Research on Cooperation in Combating Drug Crimes in the Greater Mekong Subregion

The Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) faces a significant challenge in combating drug-related crimes, which have far-reaching negative implications for the region's stability, development, and security. Cooperation among GMS countries is crucial in effectively addressing this shared threat. This paper examines the current status and characteristics of drug-related crimes in the GMS, highlighting the importance of cooperation and analyzing the existing cooperation mechanisms and their achievements. It also discusses the challenges to cooperation, including political, economic, social, and legal factors, and proposes strategies to enhance cooperation, such as strengthening existing mechanisms, adopting innovative approaches, and fostering greater collaboration among GMS countries and international partners. The paper concludes by emphasizing the importance of continued and strengthened cooperation to achieve a drug-free and secure GMS, contributing to sustainable development and regional stability. Keywords: Greater Mekong Subregion, drug-related crimes, cooperation, regional stability DOI: 10.7176/JLPG/146-04 Publication date: February 28th 2025