Drug use can be dangerous but prohibition makes them more dangerous even deadly. We’ve had 60 years of prohibitionist drug policies in Australia in yet drug use is at an all-time high.
It is time for Canada to exercise the often ignored flexibility contained within these treaties, and move forward with the legalization and regulation of cannabis.
The criminalization of a public health issue has created huge and complex obstacles for people motivated to eliminate their drug dependence to seek or obtain necessary health care and support.
Switzerland and other countries, such as Portugal and Uruguay, have implemented policies that are people-centred, focused on health and most importantly, keeping people alive -- all while respecting human rights.