This study aims to examine the feasibility of drug legalization in Iran through a multidimensional analysis of its legal, social, and economic consequences. Within Iran's current legal system, the production, distribution, and consumption of drugs are considered criminal offenses and are met with severe penalties. Although these laws were designed with preventive and security-oriented objectives, they have created challenges such as prison overcrowding, a rising number of court cases, and a lack of emphasis on treatment-based programs. Based on official statistics, the estimated number of addicts ranges from 2.8 to 4.4 million, indicating a critical need to re-evaluate existing approaches. Through a comparative analysis of the experiences of countries like Portugal (harm reduction policy) and the Netherlands (limited legalization), this article seeks to answer whether reforming current laws—shifting the focus towards treating addicts rather than punishing them, and distinguishing between users and traffickers—could lead to a reduction in socio-economic harms. Furthermore, the potential impacts of legalization, such as reducing the costs associated with combating trafficking or generating tax revenue, are discussed. The findings of this study can assist policymakers in designing practical solutions, including the adoption of a "harm reduction" model and the strengthening of rehabilitation institutions.

Drug Legalization Legal Consequences Social Consequences Economic Consequences Iranian Legal System