The decriminalisation of personal possession of all drugs: Current law perspectives

Background:

The global discourse surrounding the decriminalisation of personal drug possession has become a focal point in contemporary legal perspectives. This presentation undertakes a comprehensive exploration of current legal frameworks, commencing with a precise definition of decriminalisation and delving into the historical evolution of drug policies. By examining the legal landscape, this section aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the context in which the decriminalisation debate unfolds.

Methods: Employing a methodical approach, this exploration involves an in-depth analysis of global frameworks pertaining to drug decriminalisation. The presentation investigates how different countries address the issue, with a specific focus on notable examples such as Portugal, where decriminalisation has been in place since 2001. Legal sources, including legislative texts, policy documents, and case studies, form the foundation of the analysis, ensuring a comprehensive overview of the legal methods shaping current perspectives on drug decriminalisation. 

Results: The results section unveils the multifaceted outcomes of the various legal approaches to drug decriminalisation. Legal frameworks are dissected to highlight variations and commonalities, offering insight into the legal consequences for personal drug possession. This section delves into the impact of decriminalisation on public health, criminal justice, and resource allocation. Simultaneously, challenges within the legal implementation are acknowledged, providing a balanced view of the tangible results of different legal frameworks. 

Conclusions: In conclusion, this presentation synthesizes the legal dimensions of the decriminalisation debate, offering a comprehensive overview within the global legal landscape. By navigating through historical contexts, diverse legal perspectives, and the tangible results of different legal frameworks, it aims to provide a balanced understanding of the complexities surrounding drug decriminalisation. The legal conclusions drawn contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding drug policy reform, shedding light on the current status of drug decriminalisation globally and providing valuable insights for policymakers, legal scholars, and the general public.