European Human Rights Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

European Human Rights Law - Essay Example Thus, under Articles 1, the Member Nations are accountable for the infringement of the safeguarded freedom and rights of any individual within their jurisdiction or competence –particularly at the juncture of the infringement. In Assanidze v Georgia1 case, the pivotal issue before the court was whether the jurisdiction can be exercised by the Central government of Georgia in the â€Å"Ajarian Autonomous Republic† as the Georgia encountered some intricacies in inflicting its authority over the local authority of the autonomous republic. The view of the court was that the â€Å" Ajarian Autonomous Republic â€Å" is without any doubt an integral province of the Georgia and subject to its control and competence . Thus, in this case, no debate concerning the â€Å"effective control† was thrown up2. Though a state is having jurisdiction throughout its territory, there could be some extraordinary scenarios where a State could not exercise its authority in some region s in its territory. So as to corroborate whether such scenario is existing , the Court will be looking into not only the objective facts but also the State’s demeanour as the State has the positive duty to initiate apt steps to make sure that there exists a respect for human rights within its whole of its region. The court will also look into in an extraordinary scenario the acts of a State which created impacts or happened outside its jurisdiction or territory, which could be regarded as exercise of its jurisdiction. Further, if in the outside territory of a State, if a State is exercising its control over its local administration, mainly through its military and fiscal support, then it could be conceived as the State is having jurisdiction in such territories3. Only under exceptional scenarios , jurisdiction is supposed on the footing of non-territorial issues like – the criminal activities by any individuals in abroad against the interest of the its nationals or aga inst the country ; actions by public officials carried out in abroad by consular and diplomatic representatives of the State ; certain acts carried out on the board of vessels flying the State flag or spacecraft or aircraft registered in such a nation ; and especially in relation to grave international crimes. In Gentilhomme and Others v France,4 it was held that the concept of â€Å" jurisdiction† within the meaning of Article 1 of the convention must be regarded as mirroring the status under public international law. In Bankovic and Others v Belgium and other Contracting States5, it was held that the concept â€Å"jurisdiction† is essentially or primarily territorial. In Lozidou v Turkey6 , the territorial jurisdiction covers any area which, at the time of the said infringement, is under the â€Å"overall control of ‘of the state concerned, which is in addition to the State territory proper. In Cyprus v Turkey [GC]7 , the term jurisdiction refers notably to oc cupied regions except the areas which fall outside such control8. In Illascu v Moldova and Russia9 case, the court substitutes the â€Å" effective control† test by appending two more new components; the â€Å"survival through support† test and the â€Å" decisive influence â€Å" test. In this case, the court has not given any significance to the â€Å"effective control† but substituted the same with the concept â€Å"effective authority.† In Moldova’

International Terrorism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

International Terrorism - Essay Example This report stresses that the internal unrest is the best recipe for the global menace of terrorism in the modern day. It can be overcome through the steps that are aforementioned. Also the global community has got its role cut out that will enable them overcoming the turbulence that shows up in one form or the other all in the farce representation of protecting the locals and local land from outside forces. There are still number of countries that are considerably distant from the true democracy. The global community must learn from the past precedence that have prevailed over last few years. This can be done so through number of steps. The first is the fact that the global community must ensure for negotiating the methods through gradual change and through political means. The use of force in bid to oust a given tyrant must be used as the last option. This paper makes a conclusion that the cases of Middle East and few other countries including those in African continent need to be pulled along the lines which will reduce the agent of radicalization. In this course of struggle, the United Nations, along with the various other super powers have got their role cut out and they need to revamp the structural deficiencies. This can be done so through more active and collaborative partnership and participation between the different countries which will enable fostering the mindset that is directed towards self awareness, demanding the basic rights and ingraining the basic concept of human rights along with the democratic norms, principles and ideologies.

Mad or Bad Essay Example for Free

Mad or Bad Essay Are murderers suffering from mental illness or simply evil? The question of whether murderers are suffering from psychiatric illness or are just simply evil is a debate that runs rife throughout not only the psychological community, but society as a whole. Murders are rare events in Australia; nevertheless they do occur. The media coverage of such events can be extensive and often dramatized, without addressing the potential underlying processes such as mental health and/or intoxicating influences that may contribute to such antisocial behaviour. Presented will be a focus on those underlying factors such as mental health and substance abuse, psychopathy will also be critically examined to draw the conclusion that murderers behaviour cannot be excluded as bad even if a mental health issue is present at the time of offence. The question of whether murderers are suffering from psychiatric illness or are just simply evil is a debate that runs rife throughout not only the psychological community, but society as a whole. Murders are rare events in Australia; nevertheless they do occur. The media coverage of such events can be extensive and often dramatized, without addressing the potential underlying processes such as mental health and/or intoxicating influences that may contribute to such antisocial behaviour. To understand and determine whether or not murderers are mad or just bad, the defining terms of â€Å"mental illness† and â€Å"evil† are imperative. The psychological definition of mental illness is â€Å"any of various disorders in which a persons thoughts, emotions, or behaviour are so abnormal as to cause suffering to himself, herself, or other people† (Oxford dictionary. 2012) and on the other hand evil is defined as the â€Å"quality or an instance of being morally wrong; causing harm or injury† (Oxford dictionary. 2012). It is vital that we differentiate these terms as often the media portrayal of murderers is only based on the evil quality without considering other possible underlying influences that may provide further explanations for behaviour. In arguing the differentiation of the mad from the bad, this paper will discuss homicide in Australia and how it differs, address influences such as mental illness, drug and alcohol abuse and provide an overview of psychopathy to murder. Homicide in Australia is a rare event, and is among the most serious of all crimes, unfortunately however, it does occur. The term ‘homicide’ refers to a person killed (unlawfully); a murder is the willful killing of a person either intentionally or with reckless indifference to life (Hayes ;amp; Prenzler, 2009). In 2007-08 there were 260 homicide incidents in Australia involving the deaths of 273 victims. In trend terms however, this rate at which homicide occurs remains at an historical low. Within Australia, most homicides were domestic homicides involving one or more victims, who shared a family or domestic relationship with the offender, furthermore intimate partner homicides comprised the largest proportion of domestic homicides at 60%; leaving stranger homicide relatively low at 12%. The vast majority of victims of homicide died from stab wounds than from any other single cause of death. Secondly, victims died as a result of a gunshot wound. Although the vast majority of victims died as a result of stab wounds for domestic and acquaintance homicides, for stranger homicides the most frequently recorded cause of death was beatings at 53% (Virueda ;amp; Payne, 2010). The social context of most homicides suggests they are likely to occur between people who are generally from similar backgrounds and socio-economic groups (Hayes ;amp; Prenzler, 2009). Importantly, the location of a homicide is largely influenced by the type of homicide, with domestic homicides accounting for the largest proportion, majority occurred within a residential location most often the victims’ home; however occasionally in the offenders. In order to understand the factors or situations that are likely to precipitate a homicide event, the motives behind such behaviour must be acknowledged, although assigning a single reason or motive may be difficult because the reasons or lack thereof may be varied and complicated. Relating alcohol, drugs and psychiatric illness to homicide is key to understanding potential situational causes of murder and whether the offender is mad or bad. Given that domestic homicides were the largest category of homicide, the 2007-08 data shows that domestic arguments were the most commonly recorded motive. The second most frequently recorded motive was alcohol related arguments which was identified as having preceded two in five homicides in 2007-08. Another intoxicating influence which could lead to explain such behaviour was illicit drug use; found in one in five homicide ncidents in the reported year alone (Virueda ;amp; Payne, 2010). For the continued differentiation of the mad from the bad it is crucial to compare motives, only seven homicides occurred as a result of the offender suffering from mental health which is a considerable decrease compared to domestic argument or alcohol related offences. Although homicides caused due to the offender suffering from mental health issues is not the most predominant cause, is this due to the homicide being explained primarily due to a form of substance abuse therefore categorizing the offence as an alcohol related argument. Bennett et al. 2011) argues that patients with schizophrenia are signi? cantly more likely than those in the general community to commit homicide offences. Although based on the Homicide in Australia: 2007–08 National Homicide Monitoring Program annual report, this has been disproved based on statistical findings. Interestingly, 39. 5% of the homicide offenders with schizophrenia had a known substance abuse (Bennett et al. , 2011). The question, however, arises as to whether the link between schizophrenia and having committed homicide is in fact explained primarily by substance abuse and whether previous criminality also plays a role (Mullen, 2000). Soyka et al. (1992) puts forward the idea that alcohol or drug abuse could cause schizophrenia like psychosis which would be a major underlying process to offenders’ behaviour. The use of illicit substances by people with schizophrenia is markedly in excess of rates among the general population (Jablensky et al. , 2000). Cannabis is the most commonly used drug, followed by amphetamines. (REF) There is little doubt that illicit substances such as cannabis and amphetamines can cause acute psychotic symptoms, it is also clear that some people are more vulnerable to the effects of drugs such as cannabis (Arseneault et al. 2004) In terms of people with an established psychotic illness, illicit substances tend to result in a worsening of psychotic symptoms. This could potentially prove to be a major underlying factor to offenders who are suffering from mental health issues. A more contentious issue to consider when relating psychiatric illness to murder is whether illicit drug use can actually cause schizophrenia. There is considerable evidence that the use of methamphetamine can induce a picture that is very similar to that of positive symptoms of schizophrenia; in most cases, the symptoms clear once the drug taking ceases (Fergusson et al. 2005). This provides a substantial flaw to deciding whether a murder is suffering from mental illness or is simply evil as the mental illness may only be triggered due to intoxicating influences such as drug and alcohol use. The major limitation when relating psychiatric illness and substance abuse to homicide offenders are that there are many variables which are not strongly scientifically supported, as well as the diagnosis of the offenders mental health being diagnosed before or after the event has occurred. Psychopathy is a very in-depth and controversial disorder that is vital to comprehend when related to acts of murder. Many argue that psychopaths are not morally responsible because they lack some of the essential capacities for morality, they are considered by some to be both mad and bad however the insanity defense is not applicable to psychopaths. Psychopaths do not meet the insanity criteria as legal and moral responsibility stand as separate categories. Maibom (2008) explains that psychopaths do have impairments in a range of abilities but not to an extent that we should expect them to be unable to acquire any deep moral understanding, it may however be that they lack substantial capacity to appreciate the wrongness of their actions. When linking psychopathy to acts of murder and deciphering the argument of mad or bad, a major factor must be taken into consideration; murders by psychopaths compared to insanity cases, are not committed while in the grips of a hallucination or delusion (Maibom. ,2008). With psychopathy being considered a moral disorder and the relevant action of the circumstances under which it is performed, it again appears to be a bad action more than a mad action. Duff (1977) states that â€Å"a psychopath cannot understand the nature and quality of his actions, or the lives and interests of those around him; he cannot control his actions in the light of any rational concerns or values, not because his impulses are strictly irresistible, but because he has no conception of rational values as providing reasons for action. † (p. 199). It is argued by Maibom (2008) that the disorder that psychopaths experience and the sorts of murders they perpetrate are better examples of badness rather than madness. This is supported by his factor of psychopathic murder being preponderantly instrumental in nature, and by the offender seeking to gain from the offence in some way or other. On the contrary, recent research by a behavioural neuroscientist, Dr Kiehl has presented an attempt to understand a psychopaths’ brain functions. In a study, Dr Kiehl focused on a male offender charged with the brutal rape and murder of a seven-year-old girl, he performed two types of analysis on the offenders brain; focusing on the density and its function. Kiehls’ findings showed very low levels of density in the para-limbic system of the offenders’ brain. This scientifically supports the definition of a psychopath and their inability to process emotion to a normal degree. The major limitation of psychopathy is that there is minimal scientific research or empirical findings to clearly state whether they are in fact mad or bad, although based on the material that has been reviewed, the murders psychopaths perpetrate are better examples of bad acts than of madness. Based on all the reviewed literature discussed above, it is likely that murderers commit offences that are better examples of badness opposed to madness. As statistically found, the highest amount homicides were those of domestic and alcohol related arguments, with motives for the causation of such behaviour, many of which were not committed while the offender was delusional or having a hallucination. This provides reason to believe offenders were aware of their actions and the unlawful aspect of their behaviour however, committed the offence. Major limitations proved throughout this essay, as murders are often situational and need to be thoroughly investigated in their own context. Further research needs to be conducted as mental illness and substance abuse often overlap which is a potential flaw when categorizing offenders. In conclusion, murderers’ behaviour cannot be excluded as bad even if a mental health issue is present at the time of offence, the mental health aspect simply provides a potential reason for, and is used when prosecuting the offender.

Proposal to De-criminalise Recreational Cannabis Use in Australia

Proposal to De-criminalise Recreational Cannabis Use in Australia In Australia there is a metaphorical ‘war on drugs’ that has failed comprehensively and as a result there is an ever-increasing level of support for the movement for drug reform.[1] There are a plethora of drug offences that relate to cannabis and a variety of statutory doctrines covered by both Commonwealth and State Law which assist in the prosecution of drug offences. The following report includes an overview of drug offences in NSW with a focus on cannabis. As well as an examination of policy issues associated with the criminalisation of recreational cannabis and potential risks and benefits related with alternative legal frameworks, in addition to a recommendation relating to the decriminalisation of cannabis. Drug Offences: The drug offences covered under the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1966 (NSW) (DMTA) include use, possession, supply, trafficking, cultivation and manufacturing of prohibited plants and drugs as well as aiding and abetting and taking part in offences involving prohibited drugs and/or plants. These laws apply to cannabis as the substance is a prohibited drug as specified in Schedule 1 of the DMTA and is a prohibited plant as outlined in s 3. Additionally, cannabis is a poisons and can be found under s 8 of the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 (NSW), cannabis is a Schedule Nine substance and therefore is a substance which may be misused or abused and the manufacture, possession, sale and/or use is prohibited by law’[2] Under s 40 of the DMTA the ‘deemed drug’ provision, makes it an offence to attempt to supply or misrepresent a legal substance as an illicit drug e.g. representing parsley as cannabis. The definition of supply in s 3 makes the offence complete upon making the offer contrary to whether supply eventuates or whether there was an intention to supply is irrelevant. Under s 29 of the DMTA where a person is found to be in possession of a certain amount of a prohibited drug it is assumed that they are a drug trafficker, for cannabis leaf this weight is 300grams and the onus falls on the accused to prove otherwise. Traffickable offences also include possession of prohibited plants (s 23) and supply of prohibited drugs (s 25) as outlined in the DMTA and carry fines of 2,000 penalty units and/or 10 years imprisonment. DMTA prohibits the manufacture, supply, possession and/or use of prohibited drugs including cannabis. There are a variety of drug offences in NSW. As outlined in Pt 2 Div 1 of the DMTA including possession (s 10) and self-administration (s 12) which are summary offences and mean that an individual is liable for a fine of 20 penalty units and/or 2 years imprisonment (s 21).[3] Under s 11 of the DMTA it is an offence to be in possession of equipment for administration of prohibited drugs. The Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1996 (NSW) also assists in the prosecution of drug offences as it regulates, controls and prohibits the supply and use of different categories of drugs of which cannabis is classified as a drug of addiction thus a prohibited substance under Schedule 9 of the Poisons Act. The above-mentioned statutory doctrines must also coincide with the elements of criminal offences mens rea and actus reus before a person is found guilty. Major policy issues Statutory doctrines and court decisions created to assist in the prosecution of drug offences have contributed to the over criminalisation of drug-related behaviours. Drug policy in NSW is increasingly concerned with promoting approaches to minimise health risks and other harms caused by the use of cannabis and other legal and prohibited drugs.[4] There are a number of practical and ethical policy issues that are associated with the criminalisation of cannabis. Many policy issues arise regarding harm minimisation through ‘therapeutic’ criminalisation and harm minimisation. This includes the Cannabis Cautioning Scheme (CCS) which was introduced in 2000 and is a formal cautioning of adult offenders detected for minor offences relating to cannabis. As well as the Medicinal Cannabis Compassionate Use Scheme (MCCUS) which allows police to use their discretion as whether or not to caution terminally ill patients.[5] Other policy issues that arise as a result of criminalisation include a lack of medical supervision inevitably leading to the spread to preventable disease, overdose deaths, adulterated substances, drug related violence, distraction of police resources. ‘Prohibition is counterproductive — it causes significant harms additional to those resulting from drug use’ instead of funding for health and social services funding is diverted to law enforcement, prosecution and incarceration.’[6]   There are concerns as to criminalisation over targeting many low risk offenders such as those dealt with under the CCS.[7] This encroaches on users feelings of personal and financial security as it is often low level offences that are being dealt with pushing users further into poverty.[8] There is a slow movement in Australia to decriminalise cannabis however the CCS is a ‘punishment so disproportionate, because even if you end up having no real penalty you have a charge, the impact on employment opportunities and family can be lifelong.’[9] The purpose of criminalisation is often questioned and policy is concerned as whether there are benefits to criminalisation or whether criminalisation is implemented as it is a highly visible â€Å"solution† to real and perceived harms and risks associated with the recreational use of cannabis.[10] The framework is increasingly utilised as it can be enacted quickly, is visible and is often correlated with a strong government. It is a common opinion that the NSW Government are contradicting their actions and intentions between attempting to criminalise cannabis while minimising the harms associated with drug use which is supported by Tadeh Karapetian’s statement ‘the Government’s objective of minimising harm has been undermined by the criminalisation policy, through the stigmatisation of cannabis users, the preservation of the black market, the limitations of diversion schemes and the restriction of medicinal use.’ [11] Recently, the Court of Criminal Appeal in NSW, extended criminal liability for drug offences, fortunately, the High Court prevented on over reaching prosecution attempts to extend criminal liability in drug offences. In the case of Burns v The Queen the High Court found that unlawfully supplying a drug to someone does not ‘by itself, form the basis for unlawful and dangerous act manslaughter’.[12]   However, if supplying a drug did amount to manslaughter, over criminalisation would occur. As a result, users and suppliers would be more reluctant to call authorities for assistance for fear of being penalised and the criminal justice system would be over-exhausted and burdened as a result.[13]   It is estimated that Australians spend over $7 billion on cannabis annually, this is a concern for the Government as they are losing out on a potential revenue stream by criminalising cannabis use.[14] The National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2013 found that the recent use of cannabis in NSW dropped from 16.7% in 1998 to 9.5% in 2013, this is a concern for policy makers as it cannot be concluded that the ‘data does not support the notion that a criminalisation policy is more effective in preventing cannabis use.’[15] While the current policy criminalises the use of cannabis, policy is gradually de-criminalising cannabis and central to the policy debate is the belief that cannabis is a ‘gateway drug’ that raises concerns as to what other drugs users may be exposed to if cannabis is de-criminalised.[16] Alternative Legal Frameworks A national drug policy has been implemented in Australia since 1985 and accepts that the eradication of illegal drug use is not achievable. Instead it aims to minimise harm by reducing demand and supply.[17]There are multiple different legal frameworks the govern the use and supply of drugs: Depenalisation means drug use and possession carry lighter criminal penalties, whilst drug supply remains a criminal offence.[18] A benefit of this framework is that drug supply is still illegal which may assist in reducing the amount of cannabis that is supplied to users. Another benefit is that users are able to use the drug with a lesser penalty which may deter some users. Conversely, due to the lesser penalty, users may use cannabis rather than a drug that has harsher penalties. This will be detrimental to the government as they will be spending money in order to assist in imposing lighter penalties such as offering drug education and treatment services.[19] Decriminalisation results in drug use and possession no longer carrying criminal penalties but are replaced with civil penalties. Those who use or possess drugs may still be charged especially if fines are not paid or attending assessments are not complied with.[20] The supply of drugs is still a criminal offence. Many politicians are concerned that the decriminalisation of cannabis would ‘send the wrong message.’[21] Additionally, researches have supported this argument, arguing that ‘removing criminal penalties would lead to increased drug use, with harms falling hardest on the deprived communities that are already the most damaged by drug-related problems.’[22] Conversely, research undertaken in Sweden has shown that ‘as a result of decriminalisation, drug use does not increase among existing or new users, but reduces demand on, and the cost of the criminal justice system.[23] There may be reductions in problematic drug use, drug-related HIV and AIDS, deaths and reduced social costs of responding to drugs.[24] However, the way decriminalisation is implemented may affect the extent of net-widening which is an increase in the number of people arrested or charged.[25] Legalisation: the use and supply of cannabis is legal.[26] Approximately one in four Australians (26%) believe that the recreational use of cannabis should be legal.[27] The biggest risk is that supplying the drug is legalised. This makes it difficult to control the risks and harms associated with cannabis. Many people may abuse the legalisation of cannabis and treat it as a â€Å"gateway drug† to harsher and riskier drugs. It may result in reducing black market and criminal networks associated with cannabis drug trading, shift in responses and funding from the police and the criminal justice system towards heath, treatment and education programs. The taxes raised from the legalisation of cannabis could be used for the benefit of the community. By legalising cannabis there may be a significant increase in drug use, based on the harms and costs associated with legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco. Recommendation It is essential that Governments recognises that they cannot strictly control the behaviour of citizens.[28] In response to the War on Drugs, the government needs to consider ending ‘the criminalization, marginalization and stigmatization of people who use drugs but who do no harm to others’ and ‘Encourage experimentation by governments with models of legal regulation of drugs to undermine the power of organized crime and safeguard the health and security of their citizens.’[29] The civil penalty applicable to minor cannabis offences creates fairness and justice as it is a more proportionate response. As a result, criminal justice resources will be freed up and civil penalties will generate a revenue for the NSW Government. ‘The only way to achieve goals of rational drug policy is to replace black market for drugs with form of legal availability under highly regulated system’, this means that the NSW government should adopt the non-commercial model which is popular in Uruguay, and allows the government to retain control over the production and sale of cannabis.[30] There should be a minimum age purchase such as 21 in the case of Colorado or 18 in Uruguay.[31] The drug should be purchased through pharmacies, with there being a limit on how much can be purchased per month as well as the purity, what forms it can be sold, the training and responsibilities of suppliers, education about the drug and much more.[32] Conclusion As a result of the ineffective ‘war on drugs’, there has been a global movement for drug law reform.[33] Former Victorian police commissioner Ken Lay, has explained that ‘you can’t arrest your way out of this problem’, showing the need for the NSW Government to reconsider the drug policy in regards to the recreational use of cannabis.[34] The key drug offences and major policy issues associated with the recreational use of cannabis is over criminalising and as a result placing strain on law enforcement and users. The government needs to be more concerned with harm minimisation rather than prohibition because ‘drug law enforcement has had little impact on the Australian drug market.’[35] In conclusion, with the application of sensible and reasonably strict criteria the decriminalisation of cannabis for recreational cannabis would benefit the NSW justice system, users and the community. Bibliography A Articles/Books/Reports Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Australian Government, Alcohol & other drug treatment services (2018) Caitlin Hughes and Alison Ritter, A Summary of Diversion Programs for Drug and Drug-Related Offenders in Australia (2008) National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre Cannabis legalisation: what model for regulation? (7 December 2017) Alcohol and Drug Foundation Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research and Innovation, Review of the Medicinal Cannabis Compassionate Use Scheme (2016) NSW Government Conrad, Chris, Hemp for Health: The Medicinal and Nutritional Uses of Cannabis Sativa (Healing Arts Press, Rochester, 1997) Drug Programs and Initiatives (2018) NSW Government Featherston, James, Simon Lenton, Effects of the Western Australian Cannabis Infringement Notice Scheme on Public Attitudes, Knowledge and Use: Comparison of Pre- and Post-Change Data (2007) National Drug Research Institute Curtin and Curtin University of Technology Hari, Johann, About Drug Policy Australia (2018) Drug Policy Australia Hall, Wayne, Pacula Liccardo, Rosalie, Cannabis Use and Dependence: Public Health and Public Policy (The Press Syndicate of the University of Cambridge, 2003) Hughes, Caitlyn, Alex Stevens, ‘What Can We Learn From The Portuguese Decriminalization of Illicit Drugs?’ (21 July 2010) The British Journal of Criminology Gettman, Jon, Top 10 Marijuana Policy Issues For 2018 (2 January 2018) High Times Gotsis, Tom, Chris Angus and Lenny Roth, Illegal Drug Use and Possession: Current Policy and Debates (Briefing Paper No 4, NSW Parliamentary Research Services, 2016) Featherston, James, Simon Lenton, Effects of the Western Australian Cannabis Infringement Notice Scheme on Public Attitudes, Knowledge and Use: Comparison of Pre- and Post-Change Data (2007) National Drug Research Institute Curtin and Curtin University of Technology Lee, Nicole, Alison Ritter, Australia’s Recreational Drug Policies Aren’t Working, so What are the Options for Reform? (2 March 2016) The Conversation Mostyn, Ben, Helen Gibbon and Nicholas Cowdery, The Criminalisation of Drugs and the Search for Alternative Approaches   ‘24(2)’ Criminal Justice State Library New South Wales, Drug Laws in NSW (29 October 2015) http://legalanswers.sl.nsw.gov.au/drugs-and-law-hot-topics/drug-laws-nsw State Library New South Wales, Drug Offences (1 October 2016) Stephen Odgers, Editorial: Drug Law Reform (2014) 38(6) Criminal Law Journal Karapetian, Tadeh, Criminalisation of Cannabis in New South Wales: Is Harm Minimisation Going Up in Smoke? (2017) University of New South Wales Law Journal Student Series 17 B Cases Burns v The Queen [2012] HCA 35 C Legislation Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 (NSW) [1] Ben Mostyn, Helen Gibbon and Nicholas Cowdery, The Criminalisation of Drugs and the Search for Alternative Approaches ‘24(2)’ Criminal Justice, 265. [2] Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 (NSW) [3] Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) [4] Johann Hari, About Drug Policy Australia (2018) Drug Policy Australia [5] Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research and Innovation, Review of the Medicinal Cannabis Compassionate Use Scheme (2016) NSW Government [6] Mostyn, above n 1, 265. [7] Tadeh Karapetian, Criminalisation of Cannabis in New South Wales: Is Harm Minimisation Going Up in Smoke? (2017) University of New South Wales Law Journal Student Series 17. [8] Ibid. [9]Caitlin Hughes and Alison Ritter, A Summary of Diversion Programs for Drug and Drug-Related Offenders in Australia (2008) National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre [10] Tom Gotsis, Chris Angus and Lenny Roth, Illegal Drug Use and Possession: Current Policy and Debates (Briefing Paper No 4, NSW Parliamentary Research Services, 2016) 19. [11] Karapetian, above n 9. [12] Burns v The Queen [2012] HCA 35. [13] Mostyn, above n 7,264 [14] Ibid. [15] Ibid. [16] Wayne Hall, Rosalie Liccardo Pacula, Cannabis Use and Dependence: Public Health and Public Policy (The Press Syndicate of the University of Cambridge, 2003) 4. [17]Gotsis, above n 12. [18] Ibid. [19] Ibid. [20] Lee, above n 18, 26. [21] Caitlin Hughes, Alex Stevens, ‘What Can We Learn From The Portuguese Decriminalization of Illicit Drugs?’ (21 July 2010) The British Journal of Criminology ‘50(6)’ [22] Ibid. [23] James Featherston, Simon Lenton, Effects of the Western Australian Cannabis Infringement Notice Scheme on Public Attitudes, Knowledge and Use: Comparison of Pre- and Post-Change Data (2007) National Drug Research Institute Curtin and Curtin University of Technology 50-62. [24] Lee, above n 18, 26. [25] Ibid. [26] Ibid. [27] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Australian Government, Alcohol & other drug treatment services (2018) [28] Karapetian, above n, 9. [29] Mostyn, above n 1, 262. [30] Stephen Odgers, Editorial: Drug Law Reform (2014) 38(6) Criminal Law Journal, 335. [31] Ibid. [32] Ibid. [33] Mostyn, above n 1, 269. [34] Lee, above n 18, 26 [35] Ibid.

There is No Alternative to War Essay -- War Violence World History Ess

There is No Alternative to War There is an average of twenty ongoing wars in the world at any given time. Some are internal civil wars, others are between nations. But the purpose of this thesis is not to report warfare, but the act of it. This includes the evolution of conventional and nuclear warfare, the potential effect of a nuclear war and why it is necessary for nations to fight war. This analysis will be based on a study of Gwyn dwyer's seven-part series, "War". The only other references used to compound this thesis will be statements from former heads of state, as corresponding to the subject of war. War is an indispensable part of civilization an is found at every chapter of human history. It is the culmination of the basic survival instinct when provoked. In the early centuries, traditional warfare employed the use of hoplite soldiers and cavalry who met at a scheduled location and fought reciprocally. The seventeenth century changed the rules of warfare, beginning with Napoleon, who increased the scale of battle in the Baradino church in 1812. The French Revolution marked the rise of modern nationalism, with civilians volunteering to join the army. The concept of National Mobilization was introduced, but not effected until the American Civil war. The Industrial Revolution produced new weapons, such as the machine-gun and the tank. These weapons assured a greater scale of destruction than was formerly accomplished. The two world wars marked the...

Personal Narrative: Football Underdogs to Champions Essay -- essays re

Football Underdogs to Champions I had tried out for the High School football team but unfortunately was cut. I worked hard over the summer and even passed on the family vacation to North Carolina to attend football conditioning at the school. Even with all of my effort put towards running and weightlifting I was still cut. That however did not stop me from playing the sport I love. I had heard of a local pigskin football league that allowed any teen my age to play. I immediately conversed with my parents and received their permission to sign up. When I first went to get my equipment I met my first coach. Coach Andy was a larger gentleman with a muscular frame. He had a bald head and slightly crooked teeth. He seemed very friendly when I met him and found out he had played football during his high school and college career. I also met the president of the pigskin league Mr. Kemp. He was fitting other players for their shoulder pads and helmets. While I was getting fitted he noted that I was a larger player and asked why I had not played high school football. I took the comment as a compliment and explained the story to him. I had also found out that my team would be the Cowboys. Through various conversations at the fitting, I found out that the Cowboys was the team in which late arrivals and new players were assigned. The Cowboys were considered the â€Å"misfit† team that had been thought of as the worst team in the league. That very night from receiving my gear I had an idea. I knew that my friend Brian Alvey enjoyed football as much as I did. He had also tried out for the high school football team and had been cut the year before. I proposed the idea of him playing football on the same team with me in the p... ...ud of me and we continued to pummel the Redskins. Our defensive line would not allow them to score at all. On one occurrence, the Redskins made it to our end zone and had fumbled the ball. I quickly jumped on the ball and prevented them from scoring. We had come back and won with a blowout game. With the game sounding whistle came roars of cheers from the sidelines, bleachers, and the team. We had won the Turkey Bowl Championship. The underdog team of misfits and late arrivals had come together and won. Winning the Turkey Bowl was one of the most memorable experiences in my life. My team had come together and through hard work and effort won the championship. To this very day, I proudly display the large Turkey Bowl Championship trophy in my room. Every time I look at the trophy it reminds me of how a group of misfits came together and won as a team.

Geology and Technology Essay

The field of geology helps us understand our surroundings on earth. The benefits of geology include how to protect our environment and supplies us with natural resources. Geology helps assist us in avoiding geologic hazards and is based on the scientific method. One of the great contributions to human understanding made by geology is the concept of the vastness of geologic time. None of these benefits could have ever been discovered or even thought of if science did not collide with technology. Science and technology are closely related to each other, and it seems like they are two major factors influencing the progress of our society. Since the industrial revolution in the 18th century science has been in progress. Some sectors that have been boosted by science and technology are energy, physical sciences, information and communication. The society has greatly gained with the invention of technology. A recently increasing challenge to the population of the world has been natural disasters. Natural disasters are consequences of the combination of a natural hazards and human populations. Natural hazards include earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, hurricanes, epidemic, and countless other natural processes that threaten population. Human vulnerability is caused by the lack of appropriate emergency management, and leads to financial, structural, and human losses. The losses from disasters depend on the capacity of the population to resist the disaster. We directed our research toward an early warning system that could recognize natural disasters as soon as scientifically possible and spread that knowledge as quickly as possible in order to minimize loss to humans. Upon researching natural disaster alert systems, we came across an intriguing and promising global system of integrated observational systems of the Earth from regions all around the world. This system of the future has numerous capabilities. In the article, â€Å"New radar technology to boost accuracy, save lives,† the National Weather Service created a new radar technology after a record high of one thousand seven hundred and six tornadoes were confirmed in 2011. The new technology was created in a desperate attempt to save those who could be at risk for a natural disaster, after five hundred and fifty lives were taken due to natural disasters in 2011. The new radar equipment sends out horizontal and vertical sweeps, allowing forecasters to have a two dimensional look at severe weather. Dave Nadler, a warning coordination meteorologist from northern Alabama, says that the new technology allows weather service officials to get tornado warnings out much more accurately and much faster. (Blanton). Another technological advance that may save many lives is the LiDar, which is an instrument that can determine how an earthquake changes a landscape down to a few inches. The LiDar gives geologists insight into how earthquake faults behave, and may lead to geologists being able to predict an earthquake (Elliot). The remarkable development in space technology and its application during the last three decades have firmly established its immense potential for the development of the human society as a whole. Robert Jedicke did a study on asteroids in orbit around the sun. Jedicke knew that the asteroids orbiting around the sun mostly pass Earth very quickly. But, he discovered that there are some asteroids that move slowly, and often are captured by Earths gravity causing them to go into orbit around Earth. Jedicke used a computer program that calculated how many asteroids would be pulled into Earths orbit. He found that once every 100,000 years there is an asteroid the size of a football field that joins the other moons in Earths orbit. Another discovery that has been made in space because of technology is the possibility of life on Mars (Palca). The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter showed photographs of dried up flood plains and riverbeds on the planet, meaning that the water could have supported ancient life (Hadhazy). In London in 2012, the Natural History Museum received a meteorite that fell from Mars to Earth. Because of the space rock being so new, scientists have a much better chance of learning about the planet. Technology is so advanced today that we can determine what rock is most common to least common in the small portion of Mars (Chang). Since the art of making fire and creating handcrafted tools, our civilization has come a long way. Science and Technology are making advances at an amazing rate. From telephones to the Internet, calculators to computers, cars to rockets and satellites, we are submerged in a sea of discoveries and inventions made possible by Science. Fields like Medicine and communications have made inroads into our cultures and thus our lifestyles.