ISFED issues this statement in reaction to the demonstration scheduled to be held on June 17 by the White Noise Movement against oppressive drug policy.

We believe that concerns raised by the White Noise Movement in connection to the state’s drug policy are important and should be addressed by the state. Existing practice of strict sanctions against drug users poses a threat to human dignity, life and health, as clearly illustrated by the case of Levan Abzianidze, who died after he was forced to take diuretics. Investigation into the case and similar other cases is still pending, which is indicative of indifference of responsible persons and inadequacy of response to acts of inhuman treatment.

The fact that applicable legislation does not set a strict borderline between possession of drugs for personal consumption and with intent to distribute is especially problematic. The authorities are using repressive methods against drug using individuals by imposing disproportionate measures. In a democratic society that serves to protect human rights and freedoms, it is impossible to effectively combat drug crimes by imposing these punishments.

The government should consider demands of the White Noise Movement and design a human strategy for combating crime and serving to protect human dignity and honor. Legislative reform is necessary to distinguish between legal outcomes of possession for personal consumption on the one hand and possession with intent to distribute on the other.