The only two other alternatives to criminalization of drugs:
decriminalization and legalization.
- Criminalization or prohibition of drugs is the outright banning
of drugs and declaring the possession and sales of drugs as
illegal. It seeks to forbid the recreational use of substances that
cause intoxication and health hazards. In many countries, drug use,
sale, and possession are considered illegal. People found indulging
in such acts face criminal charges of different levels.
- Decriminalization of drugs means permitting people to possess
small quantities of certain drugs for personal consumption. It is,
however, illegal to manufacture or possess them in large quantities
for sale or other personal purposes. Decriminalization makes way
for reduced regulation on drug use. Portugal, Spain, and Italy are
some counties that have adopted the decriminalization of
drugs.
- Legalization is the permission to carry drugs legally in a
country. This is part of drug liberalization where drug prohibition
laws are eliminated and possession of drugs is not considered a
crime.