Amsterdam Explores Legal Crack Cocaine Distribution Pilot Program

Pilot Program Under Consideration

The city of Amsterdam is actively exploring a pilot program that would involve the legal distribution of crack cocaine to users within a controlled environment. This initiative is designed to mitigate public nuisance, reduce crime rates, and enhance the connection between users and essential support services. The municipality has allocated over 100,000 euros to fund a comprehensive study into the feasibility of such a program.

If the findings of the study are positive, the experiment could commence in Amsterdam as early as 2027, with potential expansion to other Dutch cities within five years.

Harm Reduction and Public Health Focus

The proposal is rooted in a harm reduction philosophy, a cornerstone of Dutch drug policy which prioritizes minimizing the negative consequences of drug use rather than strict prohibition. Emeritus professor of addiction care Wim van den Brink is leading the study in collaboration with the city. A municipal spokesperson stated that 'Medical distribution could ensure stable access to a safe product, reduce dependence on dealers, and, importantly, increase contact with support services.'

The move comes as crack cocaine use is reportedly on the rise across the Netherlands, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the homeless, migrant workers, and rejected asylum seekers. Users like Sikko Riedstra, who has been addicted to crack for over 30 years, have voiced support for the program, highlighting the dangers of unregulated street drugs. Riedstra noted, 'If the drugs are controlled, I know what I am smoking.'

Lessons from Past Initiatives

This potential pilot program draws parallels with previous Dutch strategies for addressing heroin addiction. In the 1980s and 1990s, a government pilot program launched in 1996 provided free heroin under medical supervision. This earlier initiative resulted in significant declines in crime, public nuisance, the number of users, and fatal overdoses. Should the crack cocaine program proceed, the Netherlands would become the first country to offer crack on medical prescription, building on its pioneering role in prescription heroin.

Organizations such as the drug users association Drugsgebruikers MDHG and Mainline, which focuses on preventing health damage from drug use, initiated the scheme. The Netherlands has a long-standing 'tolerance policy' (gedoogbeleid) regarding drugs, where while hard drugs are technically illegal, the focus is on minimizing harm, and possession of small amounts often goes unpunished.

Addressing a Growing Challenge

The current street price for 0.1 gram of crack is approximately five euros, with many users requiring multiple doses daily. The uncontrolled nature of the illicit market means street-bought crack is often impure and unsafe. By providing a controlled and legal supply, Amsterdam aims to improve the health and safety of users and reduce the societal impact of the illegal drug trade.