Places where illegal drugs can be safely consumed still exist in the Netherlands. The country draws a distinction between marijuana and hashish, on the one hand, and hard illegal drugs, such as ecstasy, heroin, and cocaine, on the other.

Brazil's national Anti-drug secretary, General Paulo Roberto Uchôa, called for prudence in the public debate on the possibility of establishing safe drug-use spots in Brazil. The creation of such spots in large urban centers on a trial basis is being discussed by an interministerial group.

At the request of the United Nations, Brazil has taken a leading role in the Haiti transition process. Since May a total of 1,200 Brazilian soldiers (970 from the Army and another 230 marines) are on duty in the country.

Brazil's federal government is discussing a decree to regulate the policy of reducing the harm caused by narcotics consumption in Brazil. The debate is led by the Ministry of Health, responsible for disease prevention and treatment of drug users.