British Columbia reverses course on drug decriminalisation amid backlash
British Columbia’s three-year drug decriminalisation programme, which allowed people to carry small amounts of illicit drugs for personal use, will end early after facing strong political opposition. The scheme, which permitted residents to possess up to 2.5 grams of opioids, cocaine, methamphetamines, and MDMA without criminal charges, was set to run until January 2026 but will now close sooner. Officials cited concerns over public disorder and a failure to achieve intended health equity outcomes.
The programme launched in January 2023, permitting residents to possess up to 2.5 grams of opioids, cocaine, methamphetamines, and MDMA without criminal charges. Police arrests for drug possession dropped as a result, with officers focusing less on minor possession cases.
Overdose deaths in the province had reached record levels before the programme’s announcement in 2022. While fatalities rose in 2023, they later declined. However, critics argued the policy contributed to public disorder, particularly in Vancouver’s downtown areas. In response, Premier David Eby introduced restrictions in 2024, banning drug use in public spaces. Nationally, Canada recorded around 6,200 overdose deaths between July 2024 and June 2025. Supporters of the programme had hoped it would shift police interactions toward health services, reducing fatal overdoses. But Health Minister Josie Osborne announced its termination, stating it had not delivered the expected benefits in health insurance coverage.
The early closure marks a shift back to stricter drug policies in British Columbia. Police will resume charging individuals found with small amounts of illicit substances. The decision follows ongoing debates over public safety and the programme’s effectiveness in addressing the overdose crisis.
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