What kind of policies could we enact instead? The failure of the war on drugs has led to new ideas and alternative models, including:

Decriminalization: While drugs remain illegal and drug use is a prohibited behavior, violations are considered misdemeanors or administrative offenses. Treatment services can be scaled up and people are more inclined to seek support without fear of reprisal. Regulation: In a regulated drug market, the supply and purchase of drugs is permitted and legal under specific circumstances. Regulation can take different forms and entail various levels of control. Some models include medical prescription, a government-run monopoly on supply and access, nonprofit user [& grow/gift] collectives, and government-licensed private operators.

Original Article (Open Society):
Why we need drug policy reform
Artwork Fair Use: Marko Kafé