Narkotikastrafflagen

Narkotikastrafflagen is the Swedish narcotics penal code that governs offences related to illegal narcotics. Enacted in 1968 and amended since, the law criminalizes the production, possession, use, and distribution of illegal narcotics, as well as related activities such as importing, exporting, or transferring narcotics or their precursors. The act applies to substances listed in Swedish narcotics regulations and to acts carried out within Sweden or with effects in Sweden.

Offences under the act are categorized to cover different forms of illicit handling of narcotics. These include innehav (possession), bruk (use), tillverkning (manufacture), import/export, försäljning or överlåtelse (sale or transfer). There are aggravated narcotics offences involving larger quantities, trafficking, or organized crime, which carry harsher penalties. The law also covers attempts, aiding, or abetting narcotics offences and sets rules for liability of organizations and individuals.

Penalties under Narkotikastrafflagen range from fines to imprisonment, with the severity dependent on the specific offence, the substance involved, the amount, and the surrounding circumstances. More serious offences, such as large-scale trafficking or export, can lead to longer prison sentences. The act also provides for various sentencing options and remedial measures in appropriate cases, such as conditional sentences or probation, depending on the judgment of the court.

History and context: Narkotikastrafflagen has been a central element of Sweden’s drug policy and reflects international drug control conventions. It has been revised several times to update the list of controlled substances and to adjust penalties in response to evolving drug trends and enforcement needs. The statute emphasizes preventing harm and reducing the supply and use of narcotics.