At conferences and forums around the world, the Portugal model of drug policy is lauded by academics, politicians and service providers and highlighted as an example of effective policy-making.  Ten years after decriminalizing personal use and possession of drugs and moving drug policy from being a law enforcement issue to one of public health, the results have been dramatic.  The future of this policy now hangs in the balance due to austerity measures in Portugal.  Without proper funding, this internationally recognized model will be distorted or discontinued.