Demographic and cultural variables, including the French Quebec population and the lack of black and Hispanic inner city enclaves in Canada, should be considered when creating drug-related policies. Canada's different legal tradition, which is closely tied to the British system, has resulted in a more cautious approach to the issue of mandatory drug testing. Three trends in Canadian drug use are identified: more alcohol and less cocaine use than in the US, declining drug use, and high consumption of licit drugs. The author maintains that, despite some publicized reforms in Canadian drug policies, the criminal law control system is very repressive. Progress in reducing drug-related social costs and producing a more civil, drug tolerant society can be achieved only through major changes in the law. 8 references