Canadians are increasingly skeptical of drug decriminalization following a controversial pilot program in British Columbia that was cut short amid rising overdose deaths and public disorder.
Blacklock's Reporter says a Department of Health report indicates a growing majority of Canadians believe decriminalization perpetuates harmful drug use and undermines community safety.
“The belief that drug decriminalization would make communities less safe increased from 2023 by five percentage points,” stated the report.
Survey results show 53% of respondents agreed that decriminalization increases harms such as overdoses, while 48% believed it makes communities less safe.
The findings come after the federal government granted B.C. a three-year exemption under the Controlled Drugs And Substances Act to allow public possession of up to 2.5 grams of cocaine, opioids, and other narcotics.
The program, which began in January 2024, ended abruptly in May 2025 after 15 months due to mounting public complaints and a spike in overdose deaths.
During the trial period, drug-related fatalities in B.C. totaled 3,313, a 16.5% increase compared to the 2,843 deaths recorded in the 15 months prior, according to the B.C. Coroners Service.
Addictions Minister Ya’ara Saks declined to address the program’s outcomes when questioned during a Commons health committee hearing last December.
“When it comes to decriminalization, it seems only the Conservatives seem to be polarizing this debate,” said Saks in response to Conservative MP Laila Goodrich (Fort McMurray-Cold Lake, Alta.).
“Do you believe decriminalization has been successful in British Columbia?” asked Goodrich. “The only party that is preoccupied with decriminalization is really the Opposition,” Saks replied.
When pressed further, Saks refrained from commenting directly on the program’s success. “I had the opportunity to speak with the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police directly, and we are all in agreement that all tools are needed to address the toxic drug supply,” she said.
The Department of Health report, titled Canadians’ Knowledge And Attitudes Around Drug Decriminalization: Results From A 2024 Public Opinion Research Survey, highlights the shifting attitudes following the B.C. trial.
Researchers noted the results are “important for monitoring key outcomes” of the exemption and its impact on public perception.
