Portugal's Drug Policy

Portugal's drug policy, enacted in 2001, decriminalizes the possession of small amounts of all drugs for personal use. Instead of criminal penalties, individuals found with limited quantities are referred to health or social services to support treatment and harm reduction. This approach aims to reduce stigma, promote public health, and focus on treatment rather than punishment, resulting in decreased addiction rates, HIV infections, and drug-related criminal activity. It does not legalize drug sales or large-scale possession, maintaining strict drug trafficking laws while prioritizing health-centered responses.