First thing, I was born and raised in Ireland to an Irish parent and a Chinese (supporter of the PRC) parent and spend most of my time now between China and Vietnam for work.

Drugs (classically illegal drugs) are also incredibly important to many non-oppressive groups as well though, involved in their spirituality and culture, independent of imperialism/capitalism. Plus things like Cannabis, Psilocybin, MDMA, Ketamine, LSD, all have health benefits (physical and mental health), low rates of addiction, and for all but ketamine (which is still not a problem until higher doses), practically bring no risk to physical health if the drugs are pure.

I think being anti-drug actually creates a lot of reactionary politics instead of solving the underlying issues why many use drugs (mental health, abuse, social exclusion, disability). Making them illegal and heavily criminalizing them creates a sub-class of criminal and others to be scapegoated and ostracized, without ever solving the problems.

To be honest, I have found China’s response to drugs understandable (due to the history of opiates in particular as a tool of imperialism) but incredibly reactionary in modern times. Drug use is increasing in China in young people and some of the policies towards drug use are absolutely exasperating this issue. (the same thing is happening in basically every country that has reactionary policies on drugs).

Plus on a side note, as an occasional recreational user of cannabis (maybe once a month, depending on what country I’m in, sometimes more if I’m in vacation), I see no issue with it being fully legal, with obvious limitations on use for age.