International experts urge government to preserve Czech drug policy model

International addiction specialists and academics from European, American and Australian universities have called on the Czech government to preserve the country's current drug policy model, describing it as one of the most successful in Europe and an example for others to follow.

In an open letter to Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO), the experts expressed concern over discussions about moving from regulation to repression and bringing the drug agenda under a single ministry. "The Czech approach has earned global respect precisely because it has never reduced drug policy solely to healthcare or criminal justice," the signatories wrote.

The letter was signed by 35 academics, physicians, researchers and experts in addiction and mental health. It highlights the Czech Republic's low rates of infectious diseases, relatively few drug-related deaths and extensive network of support services.