Prevention of Drug Crime: Experience of the Netherlands

Abstract

Article examines drug crime prevention measures taken in the Netherlands due to the danger of criminal environment within the country at the end of previous century. These measures were implemented in three directions: reduction of drugs’ demand, reduction of drugs’ offer, reduction of harm from non-medical drug use. In terms of drug crime prevention, the emphasis was placed on the wide involvement of public organizations and establishments in social and healthcare provision which are considered as the main centers where drug addicted people and people responsible for minor offences have been redirected by policemen. Special attention is paid to the project «Approach 600» directed at reduction of street crime level and implemented by police at the beginning of 2000 in tight cooperation with prosecutor’s bodies, health protection establishments and social services. Also special attention was paid to implementation of preventive measures in juvenile and youth environment, educational establishments in particular. Realization of such programs as «Young in 2000», «New prospects» has resulted in considerable reduction of minor offenders. Elements of programs for reduction of harm from non-medical drug use were widely implemented and helped to lower the death and illness rate among drug addicted people. Besides, the Government of the Netherlands promoted the illegal drug anti-trafficking campaigns. By the amount of seized drugs this country takes one of leading positions in Europe. As a result, durable investments to legal order have completely proved its efficiency in the Netherlands, the capital of which is ranked as one of the safest cities in Europe.