Product details

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Abstract

Portugal's drug decriminalisation strategy attracted global interest as it not only decriminalised but redefined drug addiction as an illness. They provided extensive treatment and recovery support to drug users through professional care. The country had addressed the prevalent public opinion to discard the war on drug by introducing decriminalisation of drug possession and use. It had also reduced drug dependence by shifting the management of drug use from the Ministry of Justice to the Ministry of Health. As a result, drug dependent people were treated as patients instead of being considered as criminals. Drug decriminalisation covered the elimination of criminal charges for drug possession and individual use as well as possession of equipment utilised for consuming drugs. On the other hand, criminalising drugs created prominent hurdles in providing health services particularly to HIV and palliative care as well as there was a violation of human rights. Moreover, Portugal's experience became a significant evidence-based approach for decriminalisation focused on reducing drug consumption, dependence, recidivism, and HIV infection, to create healthier communities. Although Portugal had been hailed globally, yet the COVID-19 pandemic had triggered a reoccurrence of drug use. Would Portugal once again be able to successfully combat the resurging drug addiction?

Teaching and learning

This item is suitable for undergraduate, postgraduate and executive education courses.

Time period

The events covered by this case took place in 2024.

Geographical setting

Region:
Europe
Country:
Portugal

About

Abstract

Portugal's drug decriminalisation strategy attracted global interest as it not only decriminalised but redefined drug addiction as an illness. They provided extensive treatment and recovery support to drug users through professional care. The country had addressed the prevalent public opinion to discard the war on drug by introducing decriminalisation of drug possession and use. It had also reduced drug dependence by shifting the management of drug use from the Ministry of Justice to the Ministry of Health. As a result, drug dependent people were treated as patients instead of being considered as criminals. Drug decriminalisation covered the elimination of criminal charges for drug possession and individual use as well as possession of equipment utilised for consuming drugs. On the other hand, criminalising drugs created prominent hurdles in providing health services particularly to HIV and palliative care as well as there was a violation of human rights. Moreover, Portugal's experience became a significant evidence-based approach for decriminalisation focused on reducing drug consumption, dependence, recidivism, and HIV infection, to create healthier communities. Although Portugal had been hailed globally, yet the COVID-19 pandemic had triggered a reoccurrence of drug use. Would Portugal once again be able to successfully combat the resurging drug addiction?

Teaching and learning

This item is suitable for undergraduate, postgraduate and executive education courses.

Settings

Time period

The events covered by this case took place in 2024.

Geographical setting

Region:
Europe
Country:
Portugal

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