Work

What Can We Learn From The Portuguese Decriminalization of Illicit Drugs?

Year: 2010

Type: article

Abstract: The issue of decriminalizing illicit drugs is hotly debated, but is rarely subject to evidence-based analysis. This paper examines the case of Portugal, a nation that decriminalized the use and possession of all illicit drugs on 1 July 2001. Drawing upon independent evaluations and interviews conducted with 13 key stakeholders in 2007 and 2009, it critically analyses the criminal justice and health impacts against trends from neighbouring Spain and Italy. It concludes that contrary to predictions, the Portuguese decriminalization did not lead to major increases in drug use. Indeed, evidence indicates reductions in problematic use, drug-related harms and criminal justice overcrowding. The article discusses these developments in the context of drug law debates and criminological discussions on late modern governance.

Source: The British Journal of Criminology

DOI: 10.1093/bjc/azq038

Authors: C. E. Hughes, A. Stevens

Institutions: UNSW Sydney, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of Kent

Language: English

Topic: Criminal Law and Policy

Subfield: Law

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Beckley Foundation