How does Canada's approach to drug policy differ from the US approach?

Canada and the United States differ in their approach to drug policy in several ways. While the U.S. has historically taken a punitive approach to drug use and drug-related crime, Canada has increasingly taken a public health approach, treating drug addiction as a medical issue rather than a criminal one. One of the key differences is that Canada has decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana, while it remains illegal at the federal level in the United States.

Another difference is that Canada has implemented harm reduction policies, such as supervised injection sites and opioid substitution therapy, to reduce the harms associated with drug use. In contrast, the U.S. has largely relied on drug prohibition and law enforcement efforts to combat drug use and drug-related crime. However, there is growing support for harm reduction approaches in some parts of the United States, and some states have even legalized marijuana for recreational use.

Overall, Canada's approach to drug policy is generally seen as more progressive and evidence-based, while the U.S. approach has been criticized for being overly punitive and ineffective. However, both countries continue to grapple with the challenges of drug addiction and drug-related crime, and there is ongoing debate about the best way to address these issues.