Is it time to consider decriminalising drugs in the UK?
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With the recent sharp rise in drug-related deaths in the UK, the government should consider radical policy action to halt a public health crisis. One option would be to draw on lessons from abroad and decriminalise recreational narcotics.
By Jake Taibel, University of Bristol
Years of futile efforts to eradicate the use of drugs in the UK has only exacerbated vicious circles of crime and poverty. Change is necessary.
Decriminalisation would focus on harm reduction, rehabilitation, and reframing how society views drug users. Healthcare services and the criminal justice system would endure less stress, freeing up money that the government can redirect into treatment and community services. Further, rehabilitation and reintegration of previous drug users back into the workforce would have a positive effect on the individuals in question, their employers, and the government.
Among the UK public, views on drug addicts are progressive. A sample from YouGov finds that 49% of people feel th...
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