Canada S Drug Strategy

In More Harm Than Good, Carter, Boyd and MacPherson take a critical look at the current state of Canadian drug policy and raise key questions about the effects of Canada’s increasing involvement in and commitment to the “war on drugs.” A primer on Canadian drug policy, the analysis in More Harm Than Good is shaped by critical sociology and feminist perspectives on drugs and incorporates insights not only from individuals who are on the front lines of drug policy in Canada — treatment and service workers — but also from those who live with the consequences of that policy on a daily basis — people who use criminalized drugs. Finally, the authors propose realistic alternatives to today’s failed policy approach. “Your book really expanded thinking and understanding and had a big influence on students critical and reflective thought. Readings sparked rich conversations about their own hopes and wishes for the field, broader social and political responses and the impact on youth and families affected by substances.” - Stephanie McCune, University of Victoria Please note: an error occurred with the printing of this book, and one of the sidebars was not printed. It is available to download here. We sincerely apologize for this oversight.

This document attempts to present an overview of Canada's current strategy regarding substance abuse issues. The strategy reflects a balance between reducing the supply of drugs and reducing the demand for drugs. Substances involved include alcohol, medications (both prescription and non-prescription), illicit drugs, inhalants, and banned and restricted performance-enhancing drugs as defined by the International Olympic Committee. The document first outlines the basic principles of the strategy, and its goals and objectives (primarily health-related). It then describes the components of the strategy's framework (research, knowledge development and dissemination, prevention programs, treatment and rehabilitation, legislation and enforcement/control, national co-ordination, international co-operation), and reviews future directions and priorities. Appendices include a historical context and a review of the current situation regarding substance use and abuse in Canada.