the Impact of Strict Laws on Drug-related Behaviors

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Hamidreza Ghanaatian
Master of Science in Criminal Law and Criminology, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz Branch, Shiraz, Iran
10.22034/lc.2026.583874.1785
Abstract
The main focus of this research, which is conducted with an analytical-historical approach and using written sources as well as the perspectives of social policy experts, is to evaluate the effectiveness of strict punitive policies in the field of combating drugs. The findings indicate that relying solely on severe punishments has not only failed to reduce the tendency to use or distribute drugs, but in some cases has led to the formation of more complex avoidance strategies by activists in this field. Based on data analysis, a dynamic, transparent, and comprehensive legal framework that can respond to the changing needs of society is considered a basic requirement in this field. Modern approaches emphasize that laws should focus more on the rehabilitation and return of individuals to society, relying on civic and social education, rather than on punishment. Achieving this goal requires identifying and addressing the roots and contexts of crime. Until the fundamental factors of the spread of crime in society are considered and basic solutions are designed for them, intensifying penalties in isolation will not have a meaningful impact on reducing the rate of drug-related crimes.
Keywords
Drugs
Increased Punishment
Consumption
Subjects