In 2001 Portugal took a huge step to solve its nation’s drug problem by legalizing all drugs. According to the New York Times, the United States and Portugal were neck-in-neck for which country had the biggest drug problem. While the United States decided to pass stricter drug laws and imprison drug users, Portugal took the alternative approach. Although Portugal legalized drugs, a dealer will still go to prison and being in possession will result in a small fine. People who are caught with drugs are required to attend a “Dissuasion Commission”-- a meeting to help the person from becoming addicted. These are often very informal, and don’t take up much time. This makes being caught with drugs more of an annoyance more than harsh crime it
