In numerous countries, NGOs focus on the reduction of damage suffered by drug addicts through contagious diseases, and hand out free sterile syringes and needles in exchange for used ones that the users collect and bring in. Photo: AFP
Leading global public health experts have urged for reform in the global blueprint on drug policy, saying prevailing policies that put drug users through the criminal justice system have had “serious detrimental effects” on health and human rights and led to lethal violence.
Non-violent, minor drug offences such as possession and petty sale should instead be decriminalised, while health and social services should be strengthened, a major new report led by The Lancet and Johns Hopkins University in the United States recommended.
Limited time offer:
Just RM5 per month.
