Introduction Drug policy is one of the most debated areas of modern legal systems, involving the intersection of criminal law, public health, and international regulation. Different countries have adopted varying approaches to address drug use and trafficking, resulting in a fragmented global framework. Understanding these policies is essential for evaluating their effectiveness and identifying best […]
Introduction The classification and legal definition of narcotic substances lie at the heart of drug law. Determining whether a substance falls within the scope of criminal regulation is essential for establishing criminal liability and enforcing drug-related offenses. However, defining narcotic substances is not a straightforward task. Legal definitions must keep pace with scientific developments, particularly […]
Introduction The regulation of drug use has long been a subject of legal and political debate. At the center of this discussion lies a fundamental question: should drug use be treated as a criminal offense or as a public health issue? Criminalization and decriminalization represent two contrasting approaches to this question. While criminalization relies on […]
Introduction Modern criminal justice systems increasingly adopt alternative sanctions to reduce prison populations and promote rehabilitation. Probation is one of the most important mechanisms in this regard, particularly for non-violent offenses such as drug use. In Turkey, probation is widely applied in drug-related offenses involving personal use. Instead of imprisonment, individuals are monitored and directed […]
Introduction Drug addiction presents a complex challenge that intersects criminal law, public health, and social policy. Legal systems must determine whether individuals suffering from addiction should be treated as offenders deserving punishment or as patients in need of medical care. In Turkey, this debate is reflected in the legal framework governing drug use. The Turkish […]
Introduction The legal distinction between drug use and drug trafficking plays a decisive role in the Turkish criminal justice system. Given the significant differences in sanctions, accurately classifying an act as either personal use or trafficking is essential for ensuring justice and proportionality. Turkish law adopts a dual approach by treating drug users as individuals […]
Introduction Drug-related offenses constitute one of the most significant areas of criminal law due to their direct impact on public health, social order, and national security. In Turkey, the legal framework governing drug crimes is primarily regulated under the Turkish Penal Code (TPC) No. 5237, along with relevant provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure […]