138

REPORTS OF THE COURSE

GROUP 1

EFFECTIVE PREVENTION OF DRUG ABUSE AND ENHANCEMENT OF 

TREATMENT FOR DRUG ABUSERS IN THE PRE-SENTENCING STAGE

I. INTRODUCTION

Worldwide, drug abuse is realized to be on the increase. Several reasons may be adduced for this. In the

majority of our countries, drug abusers are convicted without much consideration to their treatment. Current
research knowledge from some countries namely UK, Canada, Thailand, USA and Australia strongly
indicate that pre-sentencing treatment is very successful in reducing recidivism and assuring rehabilitation of
the abuser. Pre-sentencing treatment is given before sentencing to all drug abusers who come in contact with
the criminal justice system of these countries. It is designed to detoxify, rehabilitate and afford reintegration
of drug abusers into society.

The legal position of some participating countries however is that drug abusers are criminals and should

only be punished. This position is accepted by the group and will be discussed in our workshop.

Phase I

Chairperson

Mr Mohammad Ashraf Ali Khalifa

(Bangladesh)

Co-Chairperson

Mr Robert Parlindungan Sitinjak

(Indonesia)

Rapporteur

Mr Francisco Stanley Martell Sibrian

(El Salvador)

Co-Rapporteur

Mr Yuki Goto

(Japan)

Phase II

Chairperson

Mr Kazufumi Kikuchi

(Japan)

Co-Chairperson

Dr Muchlis Effendy

(Indonesia)

Rapporteur

Mr Vong Poh Fah

(Malaysia)

Co-Rapporteur

Mr Hiroki Sakai

(Japan)

Mr Kunio Tomihari

(Japan)

Phase III

Chairperson

Mr Alphonse Mark Adu-Amankwah

(Ghana)

Co-Chairperson

Mr Nagphey

(Bhutan)

Rapporteur

Mr Mamoru Nomura

(Japan)

Co-Rapporteur

Mr Hiroyuki Yamashita

(Japan)

Ms Mamdhooha Shujau

(Maldives)

Visiting Experts

Ms Shereen Sadiq

(UK)

Dr Brain A.Grant

(Canada)

Advisers

Deputy-Director Ms. Tomoko Akane

(UNAFEI)

Prof. Mr. Toru Miura

(UNAFEI)

Prof. Mr. Yasuhiro Tanabe

(UNAFEI)

Prof. Mr. Keisuke Senta

(UNAFEI)

Prof. Mr. Hiroyuki Shinkai

(UNAFEI)

124TH INTERNATIONAL TRAINING COURSE

REPORTS OF THE COURSE

139

II. CURRENT SITUATION OF DRUG ABUSE AND MAJOR PROBLEMS

A. Current Situation of Drug Abuse: Sanctions by the CJS, Major Illicit Drug Trends and High-risk 

Population

Each country has respective laws against drugs. According to those laws, in almost all countries both

self-use and possession of drugs are punished, but in El Salvador self-use of all drugs is unpunished.

The drugs that are abused vary from country to country. In Malaysia, Maldives, Bangladesh and

Indonesia, heroin is the most abused. Ghana and El Salvador have cannabis, Japan has methamphetamine
and Bhutan has dendrite (adhesive glue), as the most abused drugs.

The younger generation is thought to be the highest risk population in all our countries.

However, the unemployed are also thought to constitute quite a high-risk group.

B. Available Programmes for Prevention

Each country has some programmes for prevention, enlightenment programmes and educational

programmes in the community or school by the government or NGOs.

In most countries, the relevant authorities conduct public relations activities to enhance awareness of the

dangers and harmfulness of drug abuse among the general public in cooperation with NGOs. In addition, to
prevent juvenile drug abuse, special education programmes are implemented in elementary schools, junior
and senior high schools and in some countries the police also cooperate in such programmes.

C. Available Programmes for the Treatment of Drug Abusers in the Pre-sentencing Stage

Almost all countries do not have such programmes, but some participant nations have the following

treatment programmes in the pre-sentencing stage.

Japan has a rather unique system, whereas it has no treatment for adult offenders, it has a treatment

schedule for juveniles. This programme is made available by the family court probation officer and the
medical officer in the pre-hearing stage.

In criminal cases involving adults, a Non Profit Organization (Asia-Pacific Addiction Research Institute)

manages a recovery-training programme for the prevention of drug abuse for defendants released on bail.

Malaysia has a pre-sentencing treatment programme under the Drug Dependants (Treatment and

Rehabilitation) Act, enacted in 1983.

Drug dependants treated under the act are not regarded as offenders. Upon being medically certified as

drug dependants, they are required to undergo compulsory treatment and rehabilitation at a drug
rehabilitation centre independent of the offence they may have committed.

D. Major Problems in Prevention and Treatment of Drug Abusers in this Stage

1. Prevention

Each country has similar problems with prevention programmes such as the lack of a monitoring

evaluation system to estimate the result of those programmes. Besides, some participant countries face the
problem of low literacy rates among their population, and as a result, a large majority are unable to
appreciate the full impact of drug prevention programmes. This has also, in a way, failed to enhance
voluntary participation in community-based drug prevention programmes.

2. Treatment

Most of the countries do not have any treatment programme at the pre-sentencing stage.

But, if this kind of programme was implemented, the greatest obstacles are deeply related to the

following matters:

RESOURCE MATERIAL SERIES No. 64

140

(i)

The general perception that drug abusers are criminals
It is necessary to change this particular point of view, in order to successfully implement
reintegration and rehabilitation treatments with the cooperation of the community.

(ii) Updated database

Without accurate information and statistics, it is impossible to adopt effective measures and
appropriate treatment.

(iii) The issue of presumption of innocence vis-à-vis the imposition of a pre-sentencing treatment

regime
There is a fear that subjecting the arrestee to this kind of programme may prejudice his/her defence
in the criminal proceedings, which he/she is later subjected to.

(iv) It is also important to discuss whether these pre-sentencing programmes should be compulsory or

voluntary.

(v)

Coordination of related authorities
Such as government institutions, NGO’s and non-profit organizations.

(vi) Lack of funds and human resources in implementing a pre-sentencing treatment and rehabilitation

framework
Some countries face financial constraints and lack of expertise required in carrying out such pre-
sentencing treatments.

(vii) Law amendment

Legal basis is indispensable for the implementation of any programme.

As the problems listed in the above 6 and 7 are beyond the group’s capacity, they will not be discussed as

separate problems.

III. POSSIBLE MEASURES FOR ENHANCING EFFECTIVE TREATMENT AND PREVENTION 

FOR DRUG ABUSERS

A. Treatment

1. Necessity of a Pre-sentencing Treatment Programme

Issues:

(i)

Whether drug abusers should be regarded as patients or ordinary offenders

(ii) Whether drug abusers ought to be offered medical treatment or punished
(iii) Whether drug abuse / use ought to be criminalized or otherwise

It was generally felt that these issues are closely connected to each other and was, therefore, necessary to

discuss them together. In the ensuing discussion, some participants reflected on their countries’ position and
put up a strong case that it is necessary to criminalize drug consumption. The argument being that drug
consumption is harmful not only to the abuser himself but also to family members as well; and this
phenomenon ultimately disrupts the peace and harmony of society. There is a fear that decriminalization of
drug use would be perceived as giving an official stamp of approval to the misuse of drugs which in turn
would engender an uncontrollable surge in the number of drug users. This argument is obviously premised
upon the precept that criminalizing drug use deters people from taking drugs. It was also noted that in some
countries drug consumption is prohibited by the religion embraced by the common majority of the
population. The national law of these countries would often be premised upon doctrines drawn from
religious edicts, which consider drug consumption a sin. It was, therefore, inconceivable for these countries
to legislate a rule that runs contrary to their religious belief. For these reasons, these countries viewed the
decriminalization of drug use as an issue that could not be compromised.

124TH INTERNATIONAL TRAINING COURSE

REPORTS OF THE COURSE

141

In contradistinction, some participants felt that drug abusers are distinct from common criminals because

they suffer from a medical condition. They were of the view that these people ought to be treated differently
because they require urgent medical treatment more than they needed to be punished. Denying drug
dependants the requisite treatment is therefore not an exercise taken in the best interest and welfare of these
individuals. More importantly, it was felt that incarcerating drug abusers would not achieve the desired effect
of deterring them from further abusing drugs, or curb recidivism. Notice was taken of the fact that some
countries, particularly the developed ones, do not criminalize drug consumption.

At this juncture, the views of the visiting expert on this issue as well as the rationale for the

decriminalization of drug use were sought. The visiting expert explained that while it has been a general
trend for most countries to impose severe criminal sanctions to deter people from using drugs, experience
shows that the rate of drug use is still high even when harsh punishments are imposed. He is of the opinion
that the belief that harsh criminal sanctions do effectively deter drug abuse is not adequately proven. Studies
have shown that punishment does not seem to have a positive effect on offenders. Drug use, he says, is
linked to the person’s criminal behaviour. It is that behaviour that needs to be dealt with. Drug abusers, apart
from abusing drugs, generally would have also committed other offences. One therefore needs to deal with
the criminal behaviour in order to reduce the number of crimes committed. And, giving timely treatment to
these offenders would be one of the ways of dealing with that criminal behaviour.

Further views were offered which postulated that a stringent legislative regime may still fail to achieve

its desired effect if enforcement of these laws is lacking or hampered by the want of human resources. It was
felt that these are policy considerations of which further ventures in the discussion would undoubtedly prove
unfruitful. In short, strict laws may not be the sole determinant in bringing about the necessary deterrent
effect.

In resolving this extremely difficult and complex issue, the meeting recognized the diversity of

circumstances that prevails in each country. Some jurisdictions have found it feasible and efficient to
decriminalize drug abuse while others have found it imperative to consider it as a criminal offence. As the
problems faced by each country vary according to its own individual needs, there is clearly no panacea to be
offered here. Therefore, the question as to whether the misuse of drugs ought to be criminalized or otherwise
would be best left to the sovereign decision of the respective countries. It was also resolved that the question
as to whether drug abusers ought to be given the necessary medical treatment instead of merely being
incarcerated should be decided by the government of the respective countries. In conclusion the group
recognizes the need to give medical treatment to drug abusers in addition to or in place of punishment.

(iv) The Necessity of an Updated Database

As this issue is highly technical in nature, the views of the visiting expert were sought. According to the

visiting expert, research carried out in Canada

1

 on offenders showed that there is a strong relationship

between crimes and, alcohol and drug abuse. The results showed that more than 50% of those who commit
crimes have been using drugs or alcohol. These results were consistent with similar research carried out in
the US and UK where approximately 50% to 60% of the offenders were found to be using drugs. He clarified
that, generally, drug abuse gives rise to three different types of crimes. First, crimes of violence that are
associated with the drug trade. Second, drug trafficking and possession, which are, by themselves,
prohibited. Third, acquisitive crimes, which are committed to finance the offenders’ drug taking, habit. The
first and second categories are punishable by law. The third, according to him, is problematic because it is
not the money that drives them to commit crimes. In comparison with the first and second categories, this
type of offender needs to be dealt with in a different way. Following this, one needs to know who has been
committing crimes and what kind of crimes were being committed under the influence of or associated with
drug use. This is where a database would not only be useful but necessary. It was further explained that for
this purpose it was not necessary to have a national database. To develop a system, a regional database would
suffice. For example, Japan could use a particular prefecture to conduct the research. The results could then
be used to argue whether a pre-sentencing treatment regime ought to be implemented or otherwise. The
working group concurred with and adopted the views of the visiting expert.

1

Grant, Brian A. Substance Abuse in the Canadian Correctional Context. VE Lecture presented at the 124 International Training
Course at UNAFEI. 26 May 2003. Fuchu, Tokyo.

RESOURCE MATERIAL SERIES No. 64

142

2. Legal Problems – Presumption of Innocence

Some concerns were felt regarding the imposition of a pre-sentencing treatment regime in that it may

impinge on the time honoured and universally recognized rule that a man is presumed innocent until proven
guilty. This is relevant, particularly in countries which criminalize drug use. There was a real concern that
submission by the arrestee to pre-sentencing treatment for drug addiction before trial could be perceived as
an admission to a charge of drug abuse and may therefore prejudice his defence. In response to this, several
solutions were canvassed to overcome the problem. Some of the suggested measures, which may be seen as
a palliative to this predicament, are:

a) The introduction of a voluntary pre-sentencing treatment scheme as opposed to one that is

compulsory; or

b) Excluding from the criminal proceedings any evidence pertaining to the pre-sentencing treatment.

Recognizing that the interests at stake here are diametrically opposed, an opinion was given to the effect

that if the benefits that can be derived from a pre-sentencing treatment regime outweigh the prejudice that an
arrestee may suffer from the receipt of such treatment, such a scheme ought to be given favourable
consideration. In any event, it was agreed that it was inappropriate for this issue to be discussed at length
here. Rather, it was felt that it would be more convenient for it to be addressed at the time when the structure
of the proposed treatment scheme was being discussed. It was also agreed that the treatment scheme
proposed must take into account the rule on presumption of innocence.

3. Forms of Pre-sentencing Treatment Programmes that may be Introduced
(i)

The target of the programme – should it be confined strictly to drug offenders or to include other 
offenders, who are drug abusers, as well?

This was by far the most difficult and controversial issue. Some participants were of the opinion that the

treatment programme should be confined to those who have committed drug offences only. Others felt that
limiting the programme to drug offences only would render the programme as being too restrictive in scope.
There was a concern that the effectiveness of the programme would be undermined if, regardless of the
offence committed, offenders having a drug problem were not treated at an early stage. Some views were
expressed that it would be difficult to regard those who have committed serious offences such as rape,
robbery and murder as patients merely because they happen to be drug users as well. Additionally, questions
were raised as to how these offences were to be dealt with in accordance with the criminal procedure if pre-
sentencing treatment was given to the offenders. There was no consensus on this issue and neither was there
any solution in sight.

(ii)

Voluntary or compulsory treatment scheme: whether consent to treatment by the offender is required

The question here was which of these alternatives was the better and more appropriate choice. The

working group was again equally divided in its deliberation on this issue. Some participants were in favour
of a voluntary scheme because it would not impinge on the rule of presumption of innocence. It was also felt
that making it compulsory may violate the arrestee’s personal rights. Some participants, on the other hand,
favoured a compulsory regime because a voluntary scheme may not be as effective as one that is
compulsory. Drug offenders could refuse treatment and the authorities would be powerless to do anything to
remedy the situation. In the end, the objective of the programme would not be achieved. To overcome the
issue of presumption of innocence, it was also suggested that the treatment programme be placed outside the
criminal justice system. By separating the treatment programme from the criminal justice system, a much
more effective result would be achieved without encroachment into the rule of presumption of innocence.

The working group heard the views of the visiting expert on the programme that is currently

implemented in Thailand

2

. According to him, the programme is compulsory rather than voluntary.

Prosecution of the drug offence is suspended temporarily while the arrestee undergoes treatment.
Prosecution will resume if the arrestee refuses treatment or if he fails to be successfully treated due to a lack
of cooperation on his part. The progress and condition of the arrestee during treatment are monitored by a
sub-committee who makes its recommendation to the public prosecutor on whether the arrestee ought to be

2

Sungkawan, Decha. Thai Community Based Correctional Programmes for Narcotics Addicts in Response to the 2002
Rehabilitation Act: A System Approach. VE Lecture presented at the 124 International Training Course at UNAFEI 28 May 2003.
Fuchu, Tokyo.

124TH INTERNATIONAL TRAINING COURSE

REPORTS OF THE COURSE

143

prosecuted for the drug offence. It was further explained that this programme is limited in that it only applies
to drug offences. Some participants felt that this system is not appropriate for their jurisdiction because the
public prosecutor has no power to suspend prosecution.

In conclusion, this issue could not be resolved one-way or the other. It was therefore suggested and

agreed that a voluntary scheme could be implemented in countries that criminalize drug use, and the choice
between a compulsory and a voluntary scheme would be available in countries that do not criminalize drug
use. However, should a compulsory scheme be implemented, due process must be taken into account.

(iii)

The agency responsible for the management of the programme

Various views were heard on the different types of agencies or institutions that are capable of handling

such a task. Examples of which are the: Narcotic Board, health department, correctional institutions, national
agency responsible for the prevention and treatment of drug abusers or a non-profit organization. The
meetings heard the views of some participants where post sentencing treatment is currently being
successfully carried out in their countries by the national drug prevention agency and it was felt that this
agency could also be capable of managing the pre-sentencing treatment. Criminal justice agencies such as
the police and prosecutors may be involved effectively in some way in pre-sentencing treatment, such as
referring offenders to treatment or in reviewing their progress, etc. However, as regards the possibility of the
police or prosecutors being responsible for the management of a particular treatment programme, the
meeting was unanimous in its opinion that such an approach would be inappropriate. Not only would they
lack the necessary manpower, skill, knowledge or capability, there would also be a conflict of interests.
Relying on law enforcement officers to carry out treatment programmes would undoubtedly hinder the
success of the treatment programme.

An ancillary issue cropped up in the above discussion. There was a concern as to whether information

obtained by the institution responsible for such a treatment programme could be made available to the public
and law enforcement agencies. Many views were heard and most favoured the disclosure of information. It
was, however, suggested that there was a need to distinguish between information that could be made public
and information that could not be made public. General information such as the planning, execution, success
and costs of such a programme, as well as the scientific information derived from the implementation of the
programme ought to be made available to the public for the purpose of public accountability and to further
the progress of society. Private information that relates to the arrestees, on the other hand, must be
safeguarded in order to protect the integrity of the programme and to ensure its success. Additionally, it will
also eradicate any fear of invasion of privacy.

(iv)

Whether such treatment should be accepted as a mitigating factor

The meeting was again divided in its deliberation as to whether pre-sentencing treatment should be

accepted by the court as a mitigating factor when the offender is found guilty and sentenced. Some were of
the view that it could only be a mitigating factor if the offence committed was a drug related offence while
others felt that it can be a mitigating factor regardless of the crime committed as it shows that, since his
arrest, the offender has been repentant and cooperative by reacting positively to the pre-sentencing treatment.

A further issue was discussed as to whether the court could dismiss the charge if the offender had

submitted himself to pre-sentencing treatment. However, some participants felt that this suggestion was
overtly radical as certain offences like drug trafficking and possession are too serious an offence to merit
dismissal merely because the offender had received treatment. Often in such cases the prosecution of the
offence would take precedence as opposed to dismissal. A dismissal would be possible only in cases where
the charge is for drug abuse.

RESOURCE MATERIAL SERIES No. 64

144

4. Drug Treatment and Testing Orders (DTTO)

3

 and the Drug Court

4

As these two programmes were somewhat similar, in that they are court-supervised programmes, the

working group discussed them simultaneously. Some participants see these programmes as an attractive
option as it offers a way out of the presumption of innocence dilemma. Additionally, if the arrest of the
offender culminates with a successful completion of treatment rather than mere punishment, there is a strong
motivation factor for the arrestee to follow the treatment programme. It was also felt that having the drug
court system safeguards the arrestee’s interest in that the decision to subject him to treatment is given by the
court as opposed to that of a law enforcement officer. This ensures impartiality and transparency. Concerns,
however, about the suitability of the use of the drug court system were also raised. It was recognized that
these programmes generally require the court to decide on the appropriate treatment to be given to the drug
user and to, thereafter, monitor his progress and response to the treatment. In short, the drug court is obliged
to administer and supervise the treatment of the offenders. Some participants felt that judges, generally, lack
the necessary skill, knowledge and training to juggle between inquiring into the arrestee’s offence and,
treatment dispensation and supervision. Others, however, do not view this as an obstacle as the court could
always be guided by expert evidence on technical matters or judges could receive short term specialized
training. There was another concern that the disposal of cases by the drug court must be speedy otherwise the
objective of giving early intervention would be defeated.

Further, an opinion was expressed to the effect that the role of the drug court is limited in that it was not

created to deal with all kinds of offences. It is basically designed to deal only with cases where crimes were
committed as a result of the offenders’ drug dependency; for example, acquisitive crimes which are
committed to obtain money to buy drugs. The drug court can only deal with less serious offences; because if
the offender undergoes successful treatment, there is no prosecution for the offence committed. The system
is designed to deal with the drug addiction problem faced by the man in the street as opposed to serious or
organized crimes. Drug users who commit serious offences would have to be dealt with under the usual
penal laws outside the drug court system. Notice was also taken of the fact that under the DTTO programme
the arrestee must consent to the treatment. This is another limitation in the scope of that programme.

Further concerns were raised as to whether the drug court could continue to inquire into the offence

committed by the drug user if he fails in the treatment programme. Would he be prejudiced by the fact that
the same court had ordered him to undergo treatment earlier? Has he abandoned his right to a fair trial by
submitting to pre-sentencing treatment?

Several suggestions were offered to overcome these jurisprudential problems. First, it was suggested that

the court should proceed to inquire into the offence and subject him to treatment if he is found guilty and
convicted for the offence. He will not be sentenced if he undergoes successful treatment. Second, the arrestee
would be tried by the normal criminal court should the treatment programme fail to produce any positive
results.

In addition to these schemes, the Arrest Referral

5

of the United Kingdom and Australian Police Diversion

Programme

6

 were looked at by the group, and the group realized that treatment may be introduced in various

stages of the Criminal Justice system.

3

Sadiq, Shereen. A Brief Overview of Drug Interventions in the Criminal Justice System (England and Wales): With a Focus on
Specific Interventions Provided at Arrest-Arrest Referral and as a Community Sentence- Drug Treatment and Testing Orders. VE
Lecture presented at the 124 International Training Course at UNAFEI. 15 May, 2003. Fuchu, Tokyo.

4

Gebelein, Richard S. The Rebirth of Rehabilitation: Promise and Perils of Drug Courts Sentencing & Corrections. U.S.
Department of Justice. May 2000.

5

Sadiq, see note 3.

6

Vaughn, Stephan. Australian Diversionary Programmes – An Alternative to Imprisonment for Drug and Alcohol Offenders. Paper
presented at the 121st International Training Course at UNAFEI. June 2002. Fuchu, Tokyo.

124TH INTERNATIONAL TRAINING COURSE

REPORTS OF THE COURSE

145

B. Prevention

1. Problems Relating to the Implementation of Drug Education Programmes, Particularly those in Relation 

to the Coordination and Cooperation between Respective Governmental Agencies
There was a general consensus that drug education programmes are absolutely necessary to combat drug

abuse and since time was short the issue was not discussed further.

2. The Failure of Drug Education Programmes to Create an Impact on High Risk Groups

This issue was raised as some participants felt that the existing drug prevention programmes are not

achieving the desired results with the high risk groups such as juveniles and the unemployed. There was thus
a need to reappraise the strategy that is currently employed.

In dealing with the former, the following suggestions were offered:

• Implementing compulsory drug education programmes in schools;
• Getting people from the community and non-governmental agencies to speak about drugs in schools,

especially rehabilitated drug offenders who can talk about their past experiences with drugs;

• Screening of documentary films in schools to show the debilitating effects of drugs;
• Holding drug prevention activities in places of entertainment; and
• Conducting advertising campaigns on prevention of drug abuse.

As for the unemployed, it was recognized that this group of people usually lacks the necessary skills and

have very little education. It was therefore suggested that vocational training be given to enable them to find
gainful employment easily. By so doing the risk of exposure to drugs would be reduced. The group also
heard how community based education programmes were successfully carried out in some countries while it
has also failed in others because drugs in these countries were cheap and easily available.

3. Harm Reduction

This was raised as an additional issue for discussion. In line with what the visiting experts have touched

on in their lectures, questions were posed as to whether it was necessary to distribute syringes or condoms to
drug dependants in order to reduce the risk of the spread of HIV or HCV among them. There was no
unanimity in the deliberation. Although the intentions are noteworthy, some participants felt that this would
not be possible in countries that criminalize drug use. First, there would be a strong likelihood of a public
outcry and, second, it would be a serious contradiction for the authorities to give out free syringes to drug
users on one hand and to prosecute them on the other. Some participants, however, felt that no such
contradiction exists and that the reduction of harm is done for the good of society.

IV. CONCLUSION

Most of our countries do not have treatment programmes for drug abusers at the pre-sentencing stage.

Also, there are considerable differences regarding the ways in handling drug abuse problems, i.e. whether
drug abuse should be criminalized or decriminalized, therefore, we have found many difficulties and
problems concerning the introduction of such programmes without contradicting the current legal
framework of the respective countries. Nonetheless, we have made our best efforts to explore any possible
future programmes at the pre-sentencing stage for the purpose of rehabilitation and reintegration of drug
abusers, creating a safer community and reducing the caseloads of criminal justice agencies.

We then reach the general consensus as follows:

1. It is necessary to introduce pre-sentencing treatment in dealing with drug abusers in the interests of

criminal justice and our society.

2. It is desirable that the implementation of the pre-sentencing treatment programme should be in

accordance with each country’s legal framework, social background and so on.

RESOURCE MATERIAL SERIES No. 64

146

3. In the introduction of any pre-sentencing treatment, the following factors should be considered:

(i)

Presumption of innocence.

(ii) The target of the treatment: persons who commit drug abuse. However, countries may wish to

consider the possibility of enlarging the scope of the programme by encompassing drug abusers
who commit other offences under the influence of drugs or for the purpose of obtaining drugs.

(iii) Necessity of consent: A voluntary scheme could be implemented in countries that criminalize

drug use and a compulsory scheme would be a better option in countries that do not criminalize
drug use, the choice between a compulsory and a voluntary scheme would be available in
countries, which do not criminalize drug use. However, should a compulsory scheme be
implemented, due process must be taken into account.

(iv) Agencies responsible for the management of the programme: Criminal justice agencies may be

involved in some way in pre-sentencing treatment. However since most criminal justice
agencies lack the necessary manpower, skill and knowledge in administering effective
treatment, it is necessary to rely on other agencies, e.g. Narcotic Boards, Health Ministries,
Interior Ministries and NGOs for the execution of the programme.

(v) Coordination: it is indispensable to establish and maintain coordination among treatment

agencies and criminal justice agencies.

(vi) Effect of treatment: Successful completion of treatment may result in non-prosecution or

dismissal of charge, or be taken as a mitigating factor if a charge is for drug abuse only.

(vii) Updated database.

4. Drug education programmes

It was unanimously agreed that drug education programmes are absolutely necessary. In order to
enhance existing drug prevention programmes, the following points are suggested:

(i)

Implementing compulsory drug education programmes in schools;

(ii) Getting people from the community and non-governmental agencies to speak about the harmful

effects of drugs in schools, especially rehabilitated drug offenders who can talk about their past
experiences with drugs;

(iii) Screening of documentary films in schools to show the debilitating effects of drugs;

(iv) Holding drug prevention activities in places of entertainment; and

(v) Conducting advertisement campaigns on prevention of drug abuse.