Humanity deserves more humane drug policies - Datawrapper Blog

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the topic of drug prohibition and the shift in policies around cannabis and other substances. It examines the harms caused by legal and illegal drugs, the history of drug prohibition laws, and the need for a more humane and evidence-based drug policy.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Drug Prohibition and Harm Caused by Substances

1. Questions related to the content of the section?

• The article presents data showing that the legal classification of drugs does not align with the actual harm they cause. Alcohol and tobacco, which are legal, are shown to be more harmful than some illegal drugs.
• The article questions the scientific basis for the current drug prohibition laws, noting that they were often tied to targeting specific minority groups rather than being based on evidence of harm.
• It discusses how drug prohibition has had "devastating consequences" such as criminalizing and stigmatizing drug users, generating violence, and fueling a black market.

[02] Decriminalization and Harm Reduction Approach

1. Questions related to the content of the section?

• The article suggests that decriminalization, as seen in Portugal, does not lead to a significant increase in drug use, and that punishment is not an effective way to address problematic drug use.
• It argues for a harm reduction approach that focuses on education, low-barrier treatment options, and questioning the current beliefs and laws around legal substances like alcohol and tobacco.
• The article encourages readers to question their beliefs about drugs and drug policies, and highlights organizations working towards more humane drug policies.