Weblog Article#5: Drugs in Portugal: Did Decriminalization Work?

Name: Wendy Cheng (49712053)
Date: 05/29/2009

My Reactions:
It is hard to believe that there is indeed a country in the world which not only officially abolishes all penalties but also decriminalizes drugs. The article provides readers one different idea that reverses the common opinion among the ordinary people. We often regard dealers or drug addicts as dangerous group to society. As a result, many countries have various penalties and prohibitions of drugs. However, the government of Portugal carries out kinder way than other countries to decrease illegal drug use and new HIV infections caused by sharing of dirty needles. The decriminalization in Portugal gives rise to a huge controversy and debate though it has been a resounding success.

I feel surprise after reading the article. Mala asks questions both on the title and the start of the article; they make readers to think deeply about the problem. In addition, the obvious contrast between the methods for dealing with drug problem of Portugal and the U.S. is ironic. The U.S. has made the best effort to solve serious drug problems such as imposing harsh penalties on its citizens but they are in vain. On the other hand, Portuguese government just enforces lenient policies to neutralize the worst problem in the country.

In my opinion, the authorities should understand their citizens very well, otherwise many problems will appear. The quotation from Mark Kleiman impresses me; I also consider that we should stop being reflexively opposed when someone else does and should think diverse aspects of others. The U.S. and other Western countries should introspect themselves and overhaul their drug-sentencing policy. Although Portugal is not really a suitable model for other countries, at least Portugal has prevented drug problem from exacerbate. In conclusion, other countries should think carefully about Portugal’s case and should improve their own policies. (297 words)