The War on Drugs and Systemic Corruption
We examine how repressive drug laws contribute to systemic corruption within law enforcement agencies and the judicial system, as demonstrated by recurring practices such as unlawful searches, the tampering of evidence and the routine retrospective validation of irregular procedures.

We also highlight the imbalance between widespread criminalisation and imprisonment for low-level drug-related offences, on the one hand, and the limited prosecution of organised criminal networks, on the other.

Taken together, these dynamics show how prohibition fuels a self-reinforcing system that ultimately serves to progressively undermine the rule of law, fundamental rights and public trust in institutions. 

Event details

UNCND69 @ UN Vienna – VIC
Wednesday 11 March 2026
Time: 11.30
Venue: Room M0E07

This side event was organised by la Società della Ragione, Forum Droghe, European Coalition for Just and Effective Drug Policies (ENCOD).

The recording of “War on Drugs and Systemic Corruption: Unintended Consequences” can be found below.