Legalization increases drug use
Swedens restrictive drug policy proves beyond all doubt that a restrictive policy on drugs is MORE effective in reducing drug use.
The most accurate indicator of the success of drug policy, is drug usage in the last 12 months that is current users. Consider the following rate of drug use for 15-16 year olds in the past 12 months -
| Sweden | Netherlands | |
|---|---|---|
| (Restrictive) | (Legalised) | |
| 1998 | 1996 | |
| All drugs | 7.7% | 31.7% |
| Cannabis | 7.2% | 31.1% |
| Amphetamines | 1.1% | 7.8% |
| Ecstasy | 1.0% | 8.1% |
| Cocaine | 0.6% | 4.3% |
| Heroin | 0.6% | 1.3% |
The figures for Cannabis use in the last 12 months for all ages were -
| Sweden | Netherlands | |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 1997/8 | |
| Cannabis | 2% | 9.8% |
Sweden has reduced their drug usage rate for male students from 36% and for female students from 30% in 1971 to 7.7% in 1998.
(Source: Hassela Australia letter Sydney Morning Herald 20/8/01)
Restrictive policies DO get people off drugs.
THE DRUG ADVISORY COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS-
More detoxification & rehabilitation that gets illicit drug users drug free.
Court ordered and supervised detoxification & rehabilitation.
Less illicit drug users, drug pushers and drug related crimes.
MARIJUANA FACT SHEET 6
