LEGALISATION 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.
We support-
· More detoxification and rehabilitation programs.
· Cannabis must never be legalised or normalised.
· Court ordered and supervised detoxification and rehabilitation programs that divert cannabis users into a drug free life.
· A reduction in the number of cannabis users.