FORESIGHT OF CYBER-ENABLED DRUG CRIMES BY 2034 IN REGION 10: STRATEGIC PATHWAYS AND PRIORITIES

The advent of the digital age has ushered in an unprecedented era where cyber-enabled crimes have become pervasive, sophisticated, and deeply entrenched in the fabric of society. This study is carried out to forecast the plausible scenarios of cyber-enabled drug crimes as influenced by factors such as legal and regulatory environment and socio-economic factors, and to develop strategic pathways and priorities to address the projected rise of cyber-enabled drug crimes in Region 10 by 2034. Through a qualitative research design utilizing futures thinking methodologies, the study is approached by the application of Scenario Analysis and Backcasting tools. Results show that cyber-enabled drug crimes in Region 10 are influenced by the interplay of legal and regulatory environment and socio-economic conditions. These driving forces drive out plausible scenarios that range from technological innovation driving escalation to regulatory crackdowns reducing activities, socio-economic instability fueling expansion, and technological regulation balancing control and innovation. The preferred future vision where technological regulation balances control and innovation suggests that stakeholders can work backward to identify necessary interventions and actions. Strategic pathways and priorities should include enhancing law enforcement capabilities through advanced technologies and specialized training, strengthening regulatory frameworks to mitigate risks and foster responsible innovation, promoting socio-economic stability through targeted interventions, fostering international cooperation to address cross-border challenges, and engaging in public awareness campaigns to educate the community about the risks associated with cyber-enabled drug crimes. By aligning these strategic priorities with the preferred future vision, Region 10 can effectively counteract the projected rise of cyber-enabled drug crimes and create a safer and more secure environment.