864: Caroline Rose | Captagon and the New Age of Narco-Diplomacy

Consumption

Captagon's consumption in the Middle East is driven by its perceived utility rather than recreational use. Caroline Rose explains that in conservative regions, Captagon is used to enhance productivity, such as staying awake for work or studying, which reduces its stigma compared to other drugs 1. This amphetamine-type stimulant is particularly popular in areas facing economic hardships, like Syria and Lebanon, where it helps people cope with dire conditions 1. Despite its widespread use, the health impacts remain unclear due to limited data and stigma surrounding drug use 2.

It's a drug that people take to be productive. So the stigma that you have with taking Captagon, many assume that, well, if I take Captagon, and if I take it to study for my exams, or if I take it just to stave my hunger, or if I need it I'm a truck driver and I need it to stay up for this second or third shift, then that's fine.

--- Caroline Rose

The production of Captagon is notably high in Syria, with significant amounts of precursor chemicals being imported, indicating a large-scale operation 3.

   

Politics

The Captagon trade has significant political implications in the Middle East, intertwining with state and military operations. Caroline Rose highlights that the Syrian regime, along with Hezbollah, is deeply involved in the trade, using it as a major revenue source 4. This involvement complicates international relations, as countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE consider normalizing ties with Syria despite its role in drug trafficking 5. Efforts to combat the trade are emerging, with increased cooperation between Western nations to impose sanctions on those involved 6.

The Syrian regime is being normalized and the captagon trade is at the top of that agenda item list.

--- Caroline Rose

However, the regime's reliance on Captagon for revenue poses challenges to these efforts, as it is unlikely to abandon such a lucrative enterprise 5.