Health-oriented drug policy

In 2022, 292 million people worldwide engaged in illicit substance use, 21.9% (64 million) of whom grapple with addiction, gravely threatening their well-being. Over 13.9 million individuals inject drugs, half of whom live with hepatitis C and one in eight with HIV. The consequences of using contaminated syringes can have lifelong implications. Psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression, coupled with social isolation, further compound the harms caused by drug use.

The Key to Reducing Risks

The adoption of a Harm Reduction approach in drug policy is pivotal in minimising risks and prioritising individual health. Germany has emerged as a pioneer in implementing Harm Reduction measures, which serve as one of the pillars of the German Government's National Strategy on Drug and Addiction. At the international level, the GPDPD, working on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), advocates for this health-oriented approach to drug policy.

Understanding Harm Reduction

Harm Reduction encompasses a range of measures aimed at reducing the risks associated with drug use. Practical examples include needle and syringe exchange programs, opioid agonist therapy, easily accessible HIV testing and counselling services, and drug consumption rooms. Equally important is the dissemination of information on safer substance use and safer sex practices for individuals using drugs. By prioritising individuals' needs and rights rather than morally condemning drug use, Harm Reduction measures have proven highly effective in reducing rates of HIV and hepatitis C transmission. The World Health Organization has endorsed these cost-effective services since 2004 for their success in curbing HIV infections and preventing high-risk drug use.

Progress and Success in Global Harm Reduction Efforts

The Global State of Harm Reduction 2024 report highlights significant progress in global Harm Reduction efforts. The number of countries implementing Harm Reduction services has been increasing. Currently, 93 countries offer at least one Needle and Syringe Program (NSP), up from 92 in 2022. Moreover, 94 countries provide at least one Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT) program, compared to 88 countries the previous year. The number of countries with legal and operational Drug Consumption Rooms (DCRs) has risen to 18, up from 16 in 2022.

A Gateway to Treatment

Harm Reduction services play a crucial role in encouraging individuals with a problematic use pattern to consider treatment. By not exclusively focusing on abstinence, these measures appeal to individuals unable or unwilling to stop using drugs in the short term. Consequently, they provide a low-threshold entry point to assistance and state health services.

Every Individual's Right to Health

The concept of Harm Reduction emerged in the early 1990s as a pragmatic response to infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C. Over time, evidence-based Harm Reduction approaches have proven successful in countries such as Germany, Switzerland, and Portugal. Currently, 108 countries recognise and support Harm Reduction in their national policy documents. However, many countries do not recognise this vital principle, leaving individuals in need with limited assistance. Individuals with drug use disorders often face stigma, criminalisation, and excessively long prison sentences due to repressive policies.

Urgent Need for Global Recognition

Challenges associated with high-risk drug use are particularly acute in countries of the Global South. These countries face difficulties in accessing evidence-based addiction assistance for individuals who use drugs. Against this backdrop, the GPDPD advises governments interested in aligning their drug policy with health-focused approaches and fosters knowledge sharing through international Expert Group Meetings.