[sergiosgc]

> Was this always the case ( I would assume so), or did it come with the decriminalization changes?

I can bring a bit of context. I'm Portuguese, I know the history well.

The intervention was centered in the SNS (our national health service), and soft touch. No mandatory treatments, no punitive approach.

Fundamentally, we approached addicts. Safe consumption spaces, with free syringes, drug testing kits, and staffed with personnel who got to know the addicts personally.

This staff, slowly but effectively, pushed those who accepted treatment onto SNS programs. It turns out addicts want to get better, as a general trend in the medium term. Give it time, this technique works.

Decriminalization is a part of it. Essential to allow the rest of the program, but a small part of it, effort-wise.