The push to decriminalise drug use in Myanmar

Proposed changes to a 1993 narcotics law will treat drug addiction as a health problem rather than a crime and emphasise treatment and rehabilitation over long prison sentences
The Frontier (Burma)
Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Nang Pann Ei KhamThe amendments provide for police to be able to send drug users to receive treatment at medical facilities before being sent to rehabilitation centres. Adults will be required to attend the centres for two hours a day until they have completed a minimum of 180 hours and a maximum 240 hours of rehabilitation. Minors will be sent to child rehabilitation centres. Drug Policy Advocacy Group-Myanmar coordinator Dr Nang Pann Ei Kham said she was concerned some sections of the draft law lacked clarity. It is essential for the amendments to stipulate that treatment and rehabilitation programs are voluntary and appropriate to the needs of users.