This evidence check assessed the impact of these programs on health, social, criminal justice, traffic, and economic outcomes. This rapid review of literature focused on studies from 2013 onwards, prioritizing high-quality evidence, including systematic reviews and primary studies.

The researchers identified 54 studies covering various programs, primarily focused on decriminalisation (especially cannabis). Key findings included complementary evidence showing beneficial effects on drug-related arrests and reduced adolescent drug use in decriminalisation programs. However, the review found limited and often contradictory evidence for other outcomes, signaling the need for further research to clarify the broader impacts of these programs.

Citation

Barker TH, McBride GM, Hasanoff S, Kanukula R, Pollock D, Price C, Munn Z. Impact of illicit drug depenalisation, diversion and decriminalisation programs: an Evidence Check restricted review brokered by the Sax Institute (www.saxinstitute.org.au) for the NSW Ministry of Health.

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