Normal Norway recently conducted a survey in which 653 people reported that they had been subjected to illegal use of coercive measures. 75% felt offended, humiliated or stigmatized. As many as 82% were afraid of the police and 65% avoided contacting emergency services in emergency situations due to fear of consequences. 35% experienced suicidal thoughts, 30% met the criteria for PTSD immediately after the event, and 18% still suffer from PTSD. It was noted that the type of coercive measure did not affect the extent of the damage.
According to the survey, 40% of participants have been subjected to disproportionate coercive measures due to suspicions of cannabis use. Of these, 27% have experienced this in the last three years. Examination of housing and urine samples were most common, followed by cell isolation and mobile phone examination. The consequences also include increased drug consumption (48%). The study showed that the use of coercive drugs mainly affected people with low socioeconomic status and that this does not prevent drug problems but exacerbates them.
What is Normal Norway?
Normal Norway is a non-profit user and interest organization that works in the field of substance abuse. Their goal is to work for evidence-based regulation of cannabis and to counteract stigma and prejudice against cannabis users. They focus on advancing human rights, harm reduction, and drug reform through policy advice, education, and activism. The organization also collects personal stories about the negative consequences of the criminalization of cannabis to highlight the problems with current legislation.
The predecessor NORML in the US
NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws) is a non-profit organization founded in 1970. They work to change laws surrounding marijuana by promoting justice, education, and support for reform. NORML’s goal is to legalize the use of marijuana for adults, reduce penalties for non-violent marijuana-related crimes, and support the medical use of cannabis. The organization also offers resources for activism, legal assistance, and information about state laws.