The headline says: “Portugal’s drug policy pays off; US eyes lessons.” Of course it should probably say, “US ignores lessons.” I like pseudo neutral editor’s note: “This is part of an occasional series by The Associated Press examining the U.S. struggles in its war on drugs after four decades and $1 trillion.” The story is…
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From the UK’s Observer (sister paper of The Guardian). One. Two. And three articles about the war on drugs, or lack thereof, in Portugal. Excerpts: Drugs have not only been decriminalised for almost a decade, but users are treated as though they have a health and social problem. … Nor has it seen its addict…
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The generally conservative and pro-legalization Economist reports: The evidence from Portugal since 2001 is that decriminalisation of drug use and possession has benefits and no harmful side-effects. … IN 2001 newspapers around the world carried graphic reports of addicts injecting heroin in the grimy streets of a Lisbon slum. The place was dubbed Europe’s “most…
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If you have an hour-plus to spare, listen to Glenn Greenwald talk about Portugal’s experience with drug decriminalization since 2001. Here’s a link to the video and also a downloadable audio podcast. Under Portugal’s new regime, people found guilty of possessing small amounts of drugs are sent to a panel consisting of a psychologist, social…
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