Comparing Drug Decriminalization: Portland vs. Portugal

Introduction

• Portland, Oregon: Decriminalized all drugs in 2020 (Measure 110).
• Portugal: Decriminalized all drugs in 2001, leading to substantial positive results.
• Key Question: Why has Portugal succeeded with decriminalization while Portland struggles?

Current Drug Crisis in the U.S.

• Fentanyl Epidemic: Deadliest drug crisis; leading cause of death for Americans under 40 in 37 states.
• Personal Accounts: Speaker has witnessed over 200 fentanyl overdoses in three years.
• Realization of Crisis: Overdose deaths are a stark reality, affecting families and communities.

Measure 110 in Oregon

• Purpose: Intended to reduce stigma and encourage drug users to seek treatment.
• Recriminalization: Due to ineffective outcomes, possession/use of drugs to be recriminalized in 2024.

Initial Expectations vs. Reality

• Inspiration from Portugal: Initial belief that decriminalization alone would resolve drug issues.
• Public Sentiment: Mixed reactions from locals, with many citing increased visible drug use and decline in public safety.
• Local Voices: Concerns about enabling behavior, lack of resources for rehabilitation, and public safety.

Observations from Locals in Portland

• Impact on Business: Businesses struggling due to visible drug use; tourists feeling unsafe.
• Community Frustrations:
  • Open drug use perceived as enabling and detrimental to community health.
  • Need for consequences and structured rehabilitation programs.

Perspectives from Drug Users

• Mixed Opinions: Some drug users advocate for decriminalization, while others believe it exacerbates the problem.
• Harm Reduction: Calls for more effective harm reduction strategies rather than enabling drug use.

Insights from Amsterdam

• Historical Context: Amsterdam dealt with a heroin crisis in the 1970s; adopted harm reduction strategies in the 1980s.
• Current Drug Policy: Drugs are technically illegal but widely tolerated; harm reduction is prioritized.
• Local Attitudes:
  • Public generally supports harm reduction initiatives.
  • Drug use seen more as a health issue rather than a criminal one.

Key Features of Portugal's Drug Policy

• Holistic Approach: Decriminalization is part of a larger strategy involving prevention, treatment, and social reintegration.
• Commission for the Dissuasion of Drug Addiction: Non-punitive evaluations for drug users, promoting treatment options instead of punishment.
• Community Support: Strong emphasis on social services, mental health support, and housing for those in need.

Lessons for Oregon

• Time and Patience: Portugal’s success took time; a rash decision to recriminalize may undermine progress.
• Integrated System: Portugal successfully combines drug policy with social support systems; a need for volunteer-based treatment acceptance.
• Shift in Perspective: Viewing drug use as a health crisis rather than a criminal issue is crucial.

Conclusion

• Oregon's Future: Need for a balanced approach incorporating lessons from Portugal and Amsterdam.
• Final Thoughts: Successful drug policy requires community involvement, support systems, and a focus on health rather than punishment.