Here's Why the Stricter Drug Policy Is Useful

The aim of Hungary’s new anti-drug laws is not merely punishment, but prevention: sending a clear message that substance use is not tolerated, stated Kristof Teglasy, Director of Strategy at the Drug Research Institute (DKI). He emphasized that a well-communicated, firm anti-drug policy can help young people not only understand the dangers of illicit drug use, but also feel the weight of legal and social consequences. He added that conservative drug policy is based on the belief that an effective and fair system can be operated using objective indicators, proportional law enforcement and regular feedback.

Illustration (Photo: AFP)

Various drugs are spreading across Europe (Photo: AFP)

Public Safety Risks and Effective Communication

Drug trafficking and drug-related crimes pose serious risks to public safety. Heightening criminalization can help suppress the criminal networks involved in distribution, recruiting minors and operating illegal labs. In this context, the Anti-Drug Day becomes a symbol of social responsibility and unity, offering a chance to reaffirm shared values like respect for the law and commitment to safe communities and healthy lifestyles.

The positivist approach to legislation aims to establish a well-regulated, objective framework for social functioning. Within this system, prevention is not only about awareness, but also about deterrence. The message of a stricter drug policy is clear: the consequences are real and serious, which may dissuade young people from trying drugs. The international day, therefore, could take on a new function, emphasizing responsible decision-making alongside education.

“A well-communicated, firm anti-drug policy can help young people not only understand the dangers of drugs but also feel the weight of legal and social consequences,” 

said Kristof Teglasy.

In addition to traditional drugs, synthetic substances are also a growing threat (Photo: AFP)

Conservative Drug Policy: Effective and Fair

The expert noted that drug-related problems go beyond individuals — they require state-level coordination, oversight and public policy action. The newly adopted legislative package signals that the state intends to act decisively against challenges related to drugs. This is an important message for society: the state will not remain passive in protecting public interest. The Anti-Drug Day is a great opportunity to showcase how the new laws work, what they aim to achieve, and their results — such as reduced distribution and improved public order. This can boost public trust in the state and enhance the social prestige of lawfulness.

Stricter laws don’t necessarily mean more punishment in every case: the new legislation allows targeted, differentiated responses based on the severity of each case.

The conservative anti-drug policy is grounded in the belief that with objective metrics, proportional enforcement, and regular feedback, an effective and just system can be maintained.

Anti-Drug Day can highlight that the stricter policy is not arbitrary, but a conscious, systemic intervention aimed at protecting society and improving public health indicators over the long term, Kristof Teglasy concluded.

Cover photo: Illustration (Photo: AFP)