The Vital Role of Education and Drug Policy Reform

The Fundamental Right to Education

We know the importance of education for the healthy development of a person and society. This progress is possible thanks to education. In Spain, education is compulsory until the age of 16. However, in other countries, many children do not go to school. To understand the importance of the right to education, we shall look at what happens in less developed countries where this right is not assured.

Challenges in Underdeveloped Nations

In underdeveloped countries such as Bangladesh, for instance, in the 12-16 age group, only 26% of girls and boys go to school. What are they doing if they don't go to school? Unfortunately, they must perform the following activities to survive:

• Working in factories, mines, or markets, risking their health for very low wages as slaves.
• Being exploited in illegal businesses such as drug peddling or prostitution.
• Being child soldiers who take part in wars.

Education as a Shield Against Misery

On the other hand, in our country, children are protected from all this misery, and that's not all. The right to education they have gives them a higher life expectancy and a better quality of life. They will possess more knowledge and stronger principles.

I believe that education is the most important right. Governments should take measures regarding investment and changing the educational system. Pupils must be better prepared, and if we achieve this, we will improve our society.

The History and Impact of Drug Use

We know that drugs have been used since antiquity by tribes and cultures to allay pain. They used many plants and other natural resources. In the last century, drugs which are nowadays illegal were used as medicine, and pharmacies would sell them.

The Risks of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse can cause serious psychological and physiological disorders. Drugs can alter our sense of responsibility and our freedom because we can fall into addiction. A serious problem exists at an early age when teenagers begin to consume. It is often at 13 or 14 years old when they try tobacco, alcoholic drinks, cannabis, or cocaine for the first time. The disadvantages of taking drugs can include the loss of family, friends, jobs, money, and intelligence.

A Perspective on Moderation and Legalization

As far as I'm concerned, I don't see anything wrong with the moderate consumption of some drugs like alcoholic drinks; doctors say that one glass of wine is good, and I think the same regarding a joint once a week.

In my opinion, drugs should be legalized because an addict will continue buying drugs on the street regardless. There are over 200 million people throughout the world who make improper use of drugs. Drugs move a lot of money, and the financial cost to governments is overwhelming. Enormous amounts are spent on reinforcing police forces, legal systems, and treatment programs. The social costs are also tremendous: street violence, gang wars, fear, urban deterioration, and lives destroyed. In conclusion, a regulated market of drugs could be the cure for all these problems.