Hungary’s response to illicit drug use and trafficking: Legal developments and lessons for Uzbekistan

Mahmudov, Dilmurod Rozmetovich and Makhsadov, Maqsatullo Ismatovich and Turaev, Ilkhom Esanovich and Kuziev, Dilshod Akhrorovich (2026) Hungary’s response to illicit drug use and trafficking: Legal developments and lessons for Uzbekistan. BELÜGYI SZEMLE / ACADEMIC JOURNAL OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS: A BELÜGYMINISZTÉRIUM SZAKMAI TUDOMÁNYOS FOLYÓIRATA (2010-), 74 (SI1). pp. 109-123. ISSN 2062-9494

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Abstract

Aim: This article examines Hungary’s approach to combating illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and implementing international legal standards. It also considers the relevance of Hungary’s experience to drug policy development in Uzbekistan.Methodology: The article presents a narrative documentary review of international legal instruments, Hungarian legislation, institutional reports and descriptions of law enforcement and prevention programmes. It focuses on developments in 2024–2025 and considers their relevance to drug policy in Uzbekistan.Findings: The analysis identifies a restrictive approach reinforced by Hungary’s 2025 anti-drug initiative and constitutional and legislative amendments. Key elements include the DELTA programme, changes to enforcement powers and diversion requirements, and mechanisms for assessing and controlling new psychoactive substances. The DADA and ELLEN-SZER programmes complement enforcement through school-based prevention intended to develop decision-making skills and strengthen trust between police and young people. These measures illustrate the combination of regulation, policing and preventive education; their description does not establish their effectiveness.Value: The article identifies potential lessons from Hungary’s experience for drug policy development within the “New Uzbekistan” reform agenda. Its practical contribution lies in recommendations concerning digital transformation, rapid assessment mechanisms for emerging synthetic drugs, and the adaptation of selected enforcement and prevention practices to Uzbekistan’s institutional and legal context.

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