What is meant by decriminalization?

Decriminalization refers to the process of reducing the criminal status of certain acts, meaning that those particular acts are no longer subject to criminal prosecution. This may involve the removal of penalties associated with specific behaviors, thereby addressing issues such as social justice, public health, or the unnecessary burden on legal systems.

For instance, the decriminalization of marijuana in various jurisdictions has led to a significant shift in how society views and regulates its use, moving from strict legal penalties to a more permissive framework that recognizes personal choice and potential benefits. This process does not necessarily mean that the act is safe or encouraged, but it acknowledges that criminalizing it may have more adverse effects than benefits.

Other choices relate to enhancing or imposing restrictions, which do not align with the fundamental concept of decriminalization. Making acts illegal or increasing penalties would entrench criminal status rather than reduce it. Similarly, adding new laws on criminal behavior diverges from the essence of decriminalization, as it typically involves either removing existing legal prohibitions or reframing how society interacts with those behaviors.