This study examines the potential effectiveness of drug decriminalization as an alternative to Kazakhstan’s current punitive approach. It analyses national policy through a SWOT framework, identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with reform. The findings suggest that decriminalization could reduce prison overcrowding and improve access to treatment, but successful implementation would require significant investment in health and social support systems, as well as strengthened public trust in institutions. The study draws on international experiences to assess the feasibility of adopting evidence-based, health-oriented approaches to drug control within the national context.