Universal Declaration on the Criminality of Drug Prohibition

Universal Declaration on the Criminality of Drug Prohibition

Preamble

Recognizing that drug prohibition has caused more harm to society than the substances themselves, leading to mass incarceration, systemic violence, public health crises, and the erosion of personal freedoms. Acknowledging the historical, cultural, and medicinal use of various substances that have been criminalized without scientific basis or consideration of individual autonomy. Concerned by the widespread violations of human rights, the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, and the perpetuation of a failed war on drugs by state and non-state actors.

Article 1: Right to Personal Autonomy

Every individual has the right to make decisions regarding their body, including the consumption, possession, and cultivation of substances, free from criminalization, as long as such actions do not harm others.

Article 2: Right to Non-Discrimination

No individual shall be discriminated against based on their drug use or association, including in areas of employment, education, healthcare, housing, or social services. Discrimination on these grounds shall be considered a violation of fundamental human rights.

Article 3: Criminal Accountability of Prohibitionists

Those who enact, enforce, and perpetuate drug prohibition laws, causing systemic harm, human rights abuses, and public health crises, shall be held accountable. The criminalization of drug users is a violation of individual rights, and prohibitionists must face legal consequences for their actions.

Article 4: Right to Access Harm Reduction and Healthcare

All individuals have the right to access harm reduction services, healthcare, and support related to drug use without fear of prosecution or stigma. Governments must prioritize public health approaches over punitive measures.

Article 5: Right to Reparation for Victims of Prohibition

Individuals and communities harmed by drug prohibition, including those unjustly imprisoned or marginalized, are entitled to reparations, including legal redress, financial compensation, and access to services that promote rehabilitation and reintegration.

Article 6: Freedom of Research and Information

The pursuit of scientific research and the dissemination of accurate information about drugs, their effects, and potential benefits shall be protected and encouraged. Censorship and suppression of drug-related information are violations of intellectual and personal freedoms.

Article 7: Decriminalization and Legal Regulation

States have a duty to decriminalize drug use, possession, and cultivation, and to implement legal regulations that prioritize safety, harm reduction, and individual autonomy. Prohibitionist laws shall be repealed, and legal frameworks must be established to address the responsible use of substances.

Article 8: Right to Social Justice and Equity

Efforts must be made to rectify historical injustices and disproportionate impacts caused by drug prohibition, including expunging criminal records, providing opportunities for economic participation in legal drug markets, and ensuring equity in drug policy reform.

Article 9: Protection from State and Private Violence

Individuals shall be protected from state and private violence related to drug enforcement, including police brutality, unjust detention, and forced rehabilitation. Prohibitionist policies that incite violence shall be abolished.

Article 10: Global Cooperation for Drug Policy Reform

International cooperation is essential for the reform of drug policies based on human rights, public health, and evidence-based approaches. States must work together to dismantle prohibitionist frameworks and support progressive drug laws globally.

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This declaration emphasizes the need to shift from punitive drug prohibition to approaches centered on human rights, public health, and social justice.