British Columbia (BC), Canada will temporarily decriminalise the possession of small amounts of some illicit drugs. The province asked for the criminal code exemption following over 2,000 deaths caused by overdoses last year. This three-year trial is the kind of its kind for Canada.

The decision will allow adults to possess a total of 2.5 grams of opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine, and MDMA. These substances will remain illegal, however, those found in possession for personal use will not be charged, arrested, or have their drugs seized. Alternatively, they will be offered information on health and social services available.

The programme will start on 31 January 2023 and run until 31 January 2026. The rules will not apply in certain circumstances, including school grounds, child-care facilities, airports, or to members of the Canadian military.

BC requested the drug laws exemption “to remove the shame that often prevents people from reaching out for life-saving help.” Five years ago, the province declared overdose as a public health emergency. Overdose deaths have since reached historic highs, but this has been overshadowed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Since 2016, more than 9,000 have died of a drug overdose.

Image from the Globe and Mail