An analysis of the act concerning the reform of drug legislation in Malta : what changes will Act 1 of 2015 bring about?

Abstract

When discussing the subject of drug depenedent persons in Malta, one may realise that in recent times we have seen a complete shift in the mentality towards such offenders. Previously drug dependent persons were segregated from society and frowned upon in a similar manner to drug traffickers. With time however society seems to have changed its view in that such persons are no longer condemned and punished harshly for their actions but are instead seen as vulnerable persons in need of assistance to help them rehabilitate themselves and reintegrate into society. This shift in mentality has brought along with it legislative changes, namely Act I of 2015, which has introduced a whole new judicial structure and method of dealing with such persons. Act I of 2015 has been in force since 15th April 2015 and has introduced a system comprised of a Commissioner for Justice, Drug Offenders’ Rehabilitation Board as well as a Drug Court to help deal with such persons. This system was introduced with the aim of showing leniency and rehabilitating the vulnerable drug user however does not in any way extend such leniency to persons who are exposed to drugs in order to make a personal gain. A year on since the enactment of Act I of 2015 this thesis shall be analysing the set up in place to evaluate the short term results such law has achieved as well as to address any inefficacies present in the current system.