mproved procedures to counteract low-level corruption and better training and equipment. The law also authorizes the Government to allow private contractors to be used to scan cargo for hidden drugs and other contraband using high-tech machinery. Several companies have expressed interest in providing this service to the Venezuelan government. Twenty-two direct daily flights from Venezuela to the U.S. are tempting vehicles for drug smuggling. In 1998, the USG continued to make seizures of illegal drugs arriving from Venezuela. The CNA continued to make demand reduction a priority in 1998. Programs included a nationwide school awareness program, TV spots and youth oriented events. In addition to a nationwide program of regional alliances led by the Governors of each of Venezuela's states, the CNA established alliances with NGOs, the private sector, and unions to promote demand reduction programs. The CNA worked with NGOs on drug treatment, education and rehabilitation programs. In November, the CNA announced that it had signed an agreement with the European community to establish a demand reduction information center in its headquarters in Caracas. The CNA organized a nationwide study of drug abuse trends by a leading demand reduction NGO. Several influential non-governmental organizations function in Venezuela including the highly successful, private sector initiative "Alliance for a Drug-Free Venezuela." These organizations work independently and in conjunction with the CNA to raise public awareness on the dangers of drug consumption. ...
