PREVENTIVE AND DETERRENT MEASURES FOR ALGERIAN LEGISLATORS TO COMBAT THE SCOURGE OF DRUGS AND HALLUCINOGENS

Abstract

This study examines Algerian legislation on drugs and hallucinogenic substances, the phenomenon of their influx into the country and the increase in drug-related crime, as well as the measures taken by the state to combat this scourge. Algeria has moved from being a transit zone for drugs to a consumption zone, as evidenced by the crimes and cases dealt with by the security services in recent years. This is also confirmed by a field study carried out by the National Office for the Fight against Drugs and Addiction, which examined the number of Algerians using drugs and the age groups most affected by these substances.

In recent years, Algerian security forces have seized significant quantities of drugs, including cocaine, indicating a serious increase in the use of these deadly substances. In order to combat this problem, Algeria has taken a number of preventive measures and has set up treatment and rehabilitation centres to ensure that addicts receive proper medical care and treatment. Disciplinary and penal legislation has also been adopted, as set out in various articles of Law No. 23-05. Coordination with the relevant international and regional organisations has also been established to prevent the entry of these poisons into the country and to avoid its use as a transit, consumption or trafficking area.