2024-11-15
26 分钟Singapore has some of the harshest drug laws in the world. The penalties for trafficking illegal narcotics include decades in prison and even a death sentence. Citizens of Singapore face consequences even if they take drugs while abroad. The government argues its zero-tolerance policy towards drugs – including cannabis - is an effective deterrent. Katya Adler speaks to journalist and documentary maker Linda Pressly about whether Singapore's harsh drugs laws really deter drug crimes. You can listen to Linda's full documentary 'Assignment: Singapore – drugs, rehab, execution' by searching for The Documentary wherever you get your podcasts. Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Peter Goffin Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Phil Bull Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson
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Unexpected Elements from the BBC World Service.
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Hello, I'm Katya Adler from the BBC World Service.
This is the global story.
Singapore has some of the harshest drug laws in the world.
Penalties for trafficking illegal narcotics include decades in prison, even a death sentence.
Nobody can take one's life except for God.
That's why I believe in that.
Citizens of Singapore face consequences even if they're found to have consumed drugs abroad.
The government argues this zero tolerance policy, including for cannabis, is an effective deterrent.
If you can convince me or anyone can convince me that removing death penalties saves more lives, we will do it tomorrow.
But is it really?
And should the death penalty be involved?
With me today is Linda Presley, a journalist who makes radio programs and documentaries for the BBC.
Hello, Linda.
Hi, Katia.
You've worked for the BBC for many years and you've made documentaries all over the world.
Now, you do have an interest in stories around drugs, but Singapore, I mean, Latin America is something that springs to mind.