Towards an integrated policy on psychoactive substances: a theoretical and empirical analysis

This publication builds upon the work of 'From a policy on illegal drugs to a policy on psychoactive substances' (2008), which examined the ways in which drug policy is formulated and applied in a number of European countries, especially in the light of the move from single policies on alcohol, tobacco and drugs to one which incorporates all of these substances.

This volume further presents the scientific grounds for choosing between a separate policy for each substance and a single, 'integrated' policy incorporating all substances. It also examines how policy is implemented in seven countries selected to cover the entire spectrum, namely those countries with separate policies for each substance and those with an integrated policy.

Substance use impinges on the quality of life of individuals and society at large, leading the authors to conclude that new scientific evidence should be given greater consideration. Moreover, it appears that policy co-ordination is a fundamental issue in determining whether policies are integrated or not. The question remains open, however, as to which structures and bodies can better serve single policies or an integrated policy for all substances.