In order to strike a balance between the interests of society and those of the drug misusing offender, policy makers and practising professionals met in Strasbourg from 12 to 14 October 1998.
By examining the different stages in the process, from the first contact of the drug user with the criminal justice system up to, and including, sentencing, as well as the role of the different protagonists involved, this multidisciplinary seminar provided the opportunity to take stock of the legislation and practice existing in different countries in this field.