THE DEEP DIVE
Switzerland is currently reevaluating its stance on drug policy as reports emerge of a groundbreaking proposal to legalize the sale of cocaine for recreational use in the capital city of Bern. This comes in response to mounting evidence suggesting that the country’s longstanding “war on drugs” has proven ineffective.
According to reports in December, Bern’s Parliament has expressed support for a pilot scheme aimed at allowing the legal sale of cocaine. This move, described as radical, signifies a departure from traditional approaches to drug control that have been largely unsuccessful.
The proposal, which has garnered attention worldwide, is still in its early stages and faces hurdles such as opposition from the city government and the need for changes in national law, as reported by Reuters. However, proponents argue that it represents a necessary shift in policy.
Eva Chen, a member of the Bern council from the Alternative Left Party and a co-sponsor of the proposal, emphasized the failure of the current approach to drug regulation.
“The war on drugs has failed, and we have to look at new ideas…Control and legalization can do better than mere repression,” Chen stated.
Switzerland’s consideration of legalizing cocaine comes amidst rising concerns over drug use in the country. Recent studies have indicated high rates of cocaine consumption, with prices for the drug dropping significantly in recent years. Frank Zobel, deputy director at Addiction Switzerland, highlighted the accessibility of cocaine, noting its affordability compared to other commodities.
“You can get a dose of cocaine for about 10 francs these days, not much more than the price for a beer,” Zobel said.
