Drug Policy Constellations: The Role of Power and Morality in the Making of Drug Policy in the UK

UK drugs policy is made through a complex constellation of actors with shared moral commitments, leading to irrational outcomes. The book explores three recent cases involving key issues in UK illicit drug policy, using a novel approach to policy analysis.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 30 January 2024
Publisher: Bristol University Press

UK drug policy is made through a complex and often controversial process that involves a range of stakeholders, including government agencies, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public. The policy is shaped by a variety of factors, including political ideology, public opinion, economic considerations, and scientific evidence. However, the policy often seems irrational when considering what works in reducing drug-related harms.

One of the main challenges facing UK drug policy is the lack of evidence-based policies. This is due to a number of factors, including the historical stigma associated with drug use, the lack of funding for research, and the political influence of the drug industry. As a result, policymakers often make decisions based on anecdotal evidence, personal beliefs, and political expediency rather than on scientific evidence.

One recent case that illustrates this problem is the government's 10-year drug strategy. The strategy was launched in 2008 with the aim of reducing drug-related harms in the UK. However, it has been criticized for its lack of effectiveness and its focus on punitive measures rather than on treatment and prevention. For example, the strategy has led to a significant increase in the number of drug-related deaths, particularly among young people.

Another case that illustrates the irrationality of UK drug policy is the issue of medical cannabis. Medical cannabis has been shown to be effective in treating a range of medical conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, and cancer. However, it is still illegal in the UK, and patients who use it are often criminalized. This is despite the fact that medical cannabis is legal in many other countries, and there is evidence to suggest that it is safer than many other prescription drugs.

To address these issues, there have been calls for a more evidence-based drug policy in the UK. This would involve a greater investment in research, a more transparent policy-making process, and a more balanced approach to drug policy that takes into account the needs of all stakeholders.

One approach to achieving this is through the use of drug policy constellations. Drug policy constellations are groups of policy actors with shared moral commitments that influence policy outcomes. These actors can include government agencies, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public. By working together, these actors can develop policies that are more effective and that are more likely to reduce drug-related harms.

One example of a drug policy constellation is the UK Drug Policy Commission. The Commission is a non-profit organization that was established in 2010 to provide independent advice to the government on drug policy. The Commission has been involved in a number of high-level policy discussions, and has published a number of reports that have influenced policy outcomes.

Another example of a drug policy constellation is the UK Drug Policy Alliance. The Alliance is a coalition of organizations that work to promote drug policy reform in the UK. The Alliance has been involved in a number of campaigns, including the legalization of medical cannabis and the reduction of drug-related harms.

Despite the challenges facing UK drug policy, there have been some positive developments in recent years. For example, the government has increased funding for research into drug policy, and has introduced a number of new policies that have been shown to be effective in reducing drug-related harms. For example, the government has introduced a drug-free workplace policy, and has implemented a number of drug treatment programs.

However, there is still a long way to go before UK drug policy is truly evidence-based and effective. There is a need for a greater investment in research, a more transparent policy-making process, and a more balanced approach to drug policy that takes into account the needs of all stakeholders.

In conclusion, UK drug policy is made through a complex and often controversial process that involves a range of stakeholders. The policy is shaped by a variety of factors, including political ideology, public opinion, economic considerations, and scientific evidence. However, the policy often seems irrational when considering what works in reducing drug-related harms. To address these issues, there have been calls for a more evidence-based drug policy in the UK. This would involve a greater investment in research, a more transparent policy-making process, and a more balanced approach to drug policy that takes into account the needs of all stakeholders. By working together, we can create a safer and more just society for all.

Weight: 514g
Dimension: 240 x 161 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529231328