The Swedish government also implemented an uncompromising drug education programme in schools with emphasis on abstinence. One cannot always prove a casual relationship between certain actions and their effect, however it is interesting to note that in Australia approximately one in two 16-18 year olds have tried marijuana. In Sweden it is only one in twenty. Cutting across all boundaries of party politics and opinion there is agreement on the unacceptability of non-medical drug use. This message with the main emphasis on prevention combines to produce a cohesive drug policy, prevention, control, care and treatment.
Swedish strategies are very practical.
Drug abuse is dependent on supply and demand. If drugs are readily available and society takes a permissive attitude the number of people trying drugs will increase. In other words even people who are well adjusted will eventually use drugs. If on the other hand they are difficult to come by and there is a danger of being arrested, the number of people trying drugs will be reduced to those who, for psychological and social reasons, are more at risk. If moreover society can bring measures of support and treatment to these vulnerable groups, it is very likely drug abuse can be reduced to an acceptable level.