British Columbia Rolls Back Drug Decriminalization

Published APR 27 2024

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The Spin

British Columbia's wasdecriminalization theof firstpublic Canadianhard provincedrugs touse decriminalizewas harda drugsjustified inattempt response to stem a deadly and tragic opioid crisis. However,Though the policyprogram may have faced opposition, and ultimately failed, it was a recentstep courtin rulingthe haltedright itsdirection expansion.toward Debatedistigmaitizing persistswhat overshould balancingbe publictreated safetyas witha addictionhealth support— not criminal — matter.

BBC News

British Columbia's decriminalization policy failed to meet expectations and faced legal challenges due to understandable concerns over harm to vulnerable populations. Balancing public safety and addiction support requires sensible regulation and additional measures like safer drug supply and designated consumption spaces, not a free-for-all.

The Globe and Mail

Metaculus Prediction

There's a 50% chance that at least 62 countries will, at least in some form, decriminalize possession of all Schedule I drugs for personal use by 2070, according to the Metaculus prediction community.