In the context of international on-stay assignments or professional engagements abroad, it is essential to raise awareness among models regarding the responsible and legally compliant handling of narcotic drugs. The term controlled substances follows (narcotic drugs) the legal definition under the German Narcotics Act (BtMG); this classification applies exclusively to Germany and serves here only as a reference framework.

For any stay abroad – whether professional or private – the laws of the respective country always apply. This means that substances or behaviors that may be permitted or socially tolerated in one country can already constitute a criminal offense in another—even in the smallest quantities, through traces of consumption, or mere residue in luggage or in the body. In addition, some countries apply their drug laws beyond their own borders. In such cases, even the consumption of controlled substances abroad can lead to criminal consequences, for example if it is detected upon entry through blood or urine tests or if another legal connection to the country exists.

Practical examples:

• Japan: Strict zero-tolerance policy; in certain cases, consumption abroad may have legal consequences upon re-entry if it can be proven.
• Singapore: Citizens may be prosecuted if drug consumption abroad is detected.

This leads to the following practical implications:

• Behavior that may be legal or tolerated abroad (cannabis use) can still be punishable after returning to another country.
• Authorities may detect consumption through blood or urine tests.
• This is particularly relevant in countries with strict anti-drug laws and extraterritorial enforcement.

Particularly strict regulations apply in the following countries:

• United Arab Emirates: Even minimal amounts or residue (in blood or on personal items) can result in multi-year prison sentences; cannabis, THC-containing products (including edibles), and cocaine are strictly prohibited; certain medications require prior approval.
• Indonesia (Bali): Long prison sentences even for small quantities (cannabis, MDMA, cocaine); very severe penalties for trafficking.
• Saudi Arabia: Very strict regulations with severe criminal penalties for possession, use, or trafficking.

It is also important to note that medications that are legal or prescribed in Germany may be restricted or prohibited abroad. This includes in particular:

• codeine-based cough medications
• tramadol (pain medication)
• methylphenidate (e.g., for ADHD)
• benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam)
• sleeping aids and sedatives

Depending on the country, these may:

• require prior authorization,
• be limited in quantity, or
• be completely prohibited.

For models, this results in a particular responsibility:

• During on-stays and jobs, they are under increased scrutiny as representatives of brands.
• Violations may lead not only to legal consequences but also to immediate contract termination and long-term reputational damage.
• Medications should be checked prior to travel and supported by medical documentation (ideally in English) and original packaging.

In summary, models are required to proactively inform themselves about the applicable laws of the respective country before international assignments and to strictly comply with them. It is particularly important to understand that not only possession and distribution, but also consumption – even if it took place abroad- can have legal consequences. Awareness of this issue is essential to minimize risks and to maintain a professional and responsible image at all times.