The Experience of Hungary in Combating Drug Addiction and Psychotropic Substances: A Comparative Legal Analysis and Implementation of International Standards into the National System
Annotation / Abstract
Abstract. This article examines the advanced experience of Hungary in combating the illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, alongside the implementation of international legal standards. The study analyzes the evolution of Hungary’s drug policy from a liberal approach to the current “zero tolerance” model, which was further solidified by the 2025 “War on Drugs” initiative and constitutional amendments prohibiting drug production, consumption, and promotion. Key components of the Hungarian strategy are explored, including the DELTA program, which grants police sweeping powers to shut down suspected drug dens and seize assets, and the C-Schedule system for the rapid control of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS). Furthermore, the article details “police-led education” prevention models, such as the DADA and ELLEN-SZER programs, which foster trust between law enforcement and youth. Finally, practical recommenda-tions for “New Uzbekistan” are provided, emphasizing digital transformation and rapid assessment mechanisms for synthetic drugs.
Full text
International Control Standards and Their Implementation
The contemporary international legal foundation for drug control is anchored in three primary United Nations conventions. These instruments establish mandatory control standards for member states [8].
The UN Conventions of 1961, 1971, and 1988:
a) The Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961 (as amended by the 1972 Protocol): This convention regulates traditional narcotics such as opium, cannabis, and cocaine. Its primary objective is to limit the use of these substances exclusively to medical and scientific purposes [10]. The Convention established a system of four Schedules (I–IV), classifying substances based on their risk level and therapeutic value [12].
b) The Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971: This instrument covers synthetic hallucinogens, stimulants, and depressants. In this context, the distinction between “psychotropic” and “narcotic” is legal rather than scientific; for instance, cocaine is regulated by the 1961 Convention, while amphetamine falls under the 1971 Convention [14].
c) The UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances of 1988: This convention significantly strengthened the criminal law aspect of the control system. It introduced the regulation of precursors (chemicals used in the manufacture of drugs), bolstered anti-money laundering measures, and enhanced international legal assistance mechanisms [12].
Implementation and International Cooperation
Hungary is a party to all of these conventions and has fully implemented their provisions into its national legislation. The Hungarian Government operates in close cooperation with the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) and the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) [16].
Anti-Drug Policy of Hungary: Historical Evolution and Strategic Approach
Over the past 25 years, Hungary’s drug control policy has undergone a significant transformation, shifting from a relatively liberal approach to a rigorous “zero tolerance” model. While the period between 2000 and 2009 was characterized by a more progressive policy, repressive measures have gained strategic priority since 2013 [18].
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Authors
Vengriya Islohot cherkovi Karoli Gaspar Universiteti
Oʻzbekiston Respublikasi IIV Akademiyasi
O'zbekiston Respublikasi Kriminologiya tadqiqot instituti
O‘zbekiston Respublikasi Jamoat xavfsizligi universiteti