The Global Commission on Drug Policy released a report on Thursday arguing the “global war on drugs as failed.” The findings detail how criminalization of drugs and drug users has led to devastating consequences for individuals and societies around the world. With millions of people involved in the cultivation, production and distribution of illicit drugs to some 250 million users worldwide, the question of what to do next is of grave importance. For suggestions and strategies on how to tackle the issues of illicit drug use and its related crimes, we speak with Tom McLellan, professor at The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Tom served as the nation’s deputy Drug Czar and is currently the founding director of the Penn Center for Substance Abuse.
At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.
Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!