Dissertations and Theses
Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Department
International Relations
First Advisor
Nicholas Rush Smith
Second Advisor
Jean Krasno
Abstract
This thesis examines the divergent drug policies implemented in Portugal and Greece, analyzing why Portugal's comprehensive decriminalization model has been more successful than Greece's partial approach. Since 2001, Portugal has pioneered a drug policy that decriminalizes all drugs for personal use while investing in harm reduction services, rehabilitation, and social reintegration. In contrast, Greece maintained criminalization while implementing more limited harm reduction measures, particularly through OKANA (the Organization Against Drugs). The research highlights how economic factors, particularly the 2008 financial crisis and austerity measures, negatively affected both countries' programs but hit Greece's initiatives with greater severity. Portugal's programs have remained resilient due to stronger institutional frameworks and public support, while Greece continues to struggle with funding issues and prison overcrowding. This comparative analysis demonstrates how historical context, political commitment, comprehensive service networks, and sustainable funding models are critical success factors in effective drug policy reform.
Recommended Citation
Fernandes, Collin, "Examining Drug Policy in Portugal and Greece" (2025). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cc_etds_theses/1200
Included in
Comparative Politics Commons, Health Policy Commons, International Relations Commons, Public Administration Commons, Public Policy Commons, Social Justice Commons, Social Policy Commons, Social Welfare Commons, Social Work Commons
