Legal status of cocaine

Legal status of cocaine refers to the laws and regulations that govern the use, possession, production, distribution, and sale of cocaine, a powerful stimulant drug derived from the coca plant. The legal status varies significantly from country to country, and in some cases, within regions of the same country.

History

Cocaine was first isolated from the coca plant in the mid-19th century. Initially, it was used for medicinal purposes and was legal in many parts of the world. However, as the addictive properties of the drug became apparent, many countries began to regulate or ban its use. The Harrison Narcotics Tax Act of 1914 in the United States, for example, regulated the sale and distribution of cocaine.

International Law

At the international level, the legal status of cocaine is governed by the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961. This international treaty, administered by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, classifies cocaine as a Schedule I drug, meaning it is considered highly addictive and has no accepted medical use in treatment.

National Laws

In the United States, cocaine is classified as a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act, indicating that it has a high potential for abuse, but can be used in medical treatment under severe restrictions. In the United Kingdom, cocaine is classified as a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, indicating that it is considered one of the most harmful drugs.

In contrast, in Bolivia and Peru, the cultivation of coca and the production of cocaine for traditional and personal use is legal, reflecting the cultural significance of the coca plant in these countries.

See Also

• War on Drugs
• Drug policy
• Drug decriminalization
• Drug legalization