Current Trends on the Works of the European Parliament With Regard to Narcotic Drugs (From Drug Policies in Western Europe, P 21-39, 1989, Hans-Jorg Albrecht and Anton van Kalmthout, eds. -- See NCJ-120465)

• NCJ Number: 124067
• Author(s): J L Diez-Ripolles
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 19 pages
• Sale Source: Max-Planck-Institute Fur Auslandisches und Internationales Strafrecht
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: West Germany (Former)

Annotation

This analysis of actions and plans developed by the European Parliament to address the problem of narcotic drugs notes that members generally agree that the emphasis should be on demand reduction through education, information, and rehabilitation.

Abstract

In addition, members are generally suspicious about the indiscriminate acceptance of extensive criminalizing techniques, penalties, growing police forces, and legal approaches as promoted by the United Nations and others. The Stewart-Clark report examined by the Parliament rested on the assumption that current drug policy is incorrect and needs changing and that neither the supply nor the demand for drugs will disappear. The report also notes that drug dependence has been part of human culture from its earliest history and that a global approach is needed to deal with it. However, legalization of narcotics is inappropriate, because demand and the associated adverse health effects would increase. The report and subsequent debates led to the enactment in October 1986 of a resolution that reflected a compromise between the parliamentary groups except for the European Rights Group. The resolution recommends intervention in all stages of the drug problem from production to consumption and suggests several specific measures. List of recommended measures.