2024-11-18 10:00:00
The significant reduction or even elimination of the production, consumption and trafficking of narcotics based on the principle of “war on drugs” [expression utilisée, notamment aux Etats-Unis, pour désigner les efforts des gouvernements pour lutter contre le trafic et la consommation de drogues] not only proved its inability to achieve its own objectives, but it also brought its share of unexpected consequences. The first is the very existence of a global illegal market estimated at more than 400 billion euros annually (between 3.5 and 6 billion in France), according to Global Financial Integrity (an NGO located in Washington): a resilient market in the face of all police and judicial responses, and responsible for increasing violence.
In the long term, the model of prohibition in place almost everywhere in the world should be questioned, because it has not been able to prevent the illegal drug market from growing. But this questioning is a debate that requires societal acceptance.
In the current framework, repression continues to be part of a comprehensive response. Even countries with public policies described as lenient, such as Switzerland, recognized for the solidity of its “four pillars” (prevention, treatment, risk reduction and repression), or even Portugal, famous for its decriminalization of personal consumption , devote the largest part of their programs to the fight against trafficking.
Weak public responses
However, punitive measures against drug users have proven their limits in dissuading consumption and prevent the treatment, if necessary, of consumers suffering from dependence. This criminalization of consumption only superficially affects demand on the drug market. This has been proven repeatedly in France (as indicated by reading the reports of the French Observatory on Drugs and Addictive Tendencies or the European Union Drugs Agency), despite the inflation of measures and positions taken by different governments over the last five years.
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A new plan against drug trafficking may certainly be necessary, but an aggressive narrative supports the weakness of public responses and undermines the ability of those in power to provide nuanced, comprehensive and effective solutions. Such solutions require clarifying who would be targeted by criminal sanctions, and prioritizing responsibilities in the criminal drug chain. Harassment of street dealers only leads to geographic movement of traffic without affecting gang leaders, and above all provokes a violent reaction from delinquents.
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What are the key factors that contribute to the resilience of the illegal drug market despite significant efforts to combat it?
**Interview with Dr. Alice Fontaine, Drug Policy Analyst**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Fontaine. We’re discussing the ongoing debate surrounding the global “war on drugs” and its effectiveness in combating drug trafficking and consumption.
**Dr. Fontaine:** Thank you for having me. It’s an important topic that impacts many lives around the world.
**Interviewer:** The article highlights that despite significant efforts, the illegal drug market is thriving, reportedly valued at over 400 billion euros annually. What do you think are the main reasons for this resilience?
**Dr. Fontaine:** Several factors contribute to this resilience. First, the global demand for narcotics remains high, and as long as there’s a demand, there will be a supply. Second, the criminal organizations involved are highly adaptable and can evolve their strategies to evade law enforcement. punitive approaches often exacerbate the situation, leading to increased violence and instability rather than reducing drug-related issues.
**Interviewer:** The piece also mentions the need for societal acceptance in questioning the current prohibition model. Why is societal acceptance crucial in this context?
**Dr. Fontaine:** Societal acceptance is essential because drug policy is not just a legal issue; it’s a social one. Changing policies requires public support to challenge deeply ingrained perceptions about drug use and encourage a more health-oriented approach. Without broad societal backing, policymaking can be slow and mired in stigma.
**Interviewer:** The intervention programs in countries like Portugal and Switzerland are noted for their leniency. How effective do you think these models are in comparison to more punitive systems?
**Dr. Fontaine:** Countries like Portugal and Switzerland have seen positive outcomes from their health-centered approaches. By focusing on prevention, treatment, and harm reduction rather than solely on punishment, they have managed to reduce drug-related deaths and improve public health. This model shows promise as a more effective alternative to the punitive systems, which often lead to cycles of reoffending.
**Interviewer:** Given the complexities of drug-related issues and the negative consequences of current policies, what would you suggest as potential policy alternatives?
**Dr. Fontaine:** I advocate for a balanced approach that incorporates harm reduction, education, and comprehensive treatment options. This could include decriminalizing personal use while strictly regulating trafficking, investing in mental health services, and providing support for addiction treatment. Ultimately, a shift from punishment to public health strategies could cultivate a sustainable and effective response to the drug crisis.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Fontaine, for sharing your insights on this complex issue. It’s clear that revisiting our approach to drug policy could have far-reaching benefits.
**Dr. Fontaine:** Thank you for having me. I hope this discussion encourages more people to think critically about drug policy going forward.
