Singapore slams calls for 'soft approach' to drugs at UN meeting

NEW YORK (Aug 31): Singapore on Wednesday blasted widespread calls to make the worldwide fight against illicit drugs less punitive, using a major meeting at the United Nations to argue that a "soft approach" would cause a flood of narcotics to the island state.

Singapore is well-known for punishing drug-related offences with harsh penalties including death. In contrast, European delegates railed against the idea of executing people for drug infractions.

"We believe that drugs will destroy our society," said Singapore Minister for Home Affairs and Law K. Shanmugam. "With 200 million people traveling through our borders every year, and given Singaporeans' purchasing power, a soft approach will mean our country will be washed over with drugs."

---

Related Stories

• Action on planet and people depends on growth
• Record food prices could leap 22% more on Ukraine war, UN warns
• UN chief warns world is facing 'dead end' over climate, covid

---