Advancing Drug Policy Reform for a Healthier World
We advocate for progressive drug policies that prioritize harm reduction, public health, and human rights. Our work focuses on promoting evidence-based approaches to drug policy reform, with the aim of creating safer communities and reducing the harms associated with drug use.
We envision a world where drug policies are based on compassion, health, and human rights rather than punitive measures. By advocating for reform, we strive to reduce stigma, promote access to treatment, and improve the overall well-being of individuals and communities affected by drug use.
Initiatives
1. Public Policy Advocacy
We promote legislative changes that prioritize harm reduction, decriminalization, and access to treatment and support services for people who use drugs.
Decriminalization: We advocate for the decriminalization of drug use and possession, redirecting resources towards health-centered responses rather than criminalization.
Harm Reduction: We support harm reduction strategies such as needle exchange programs, supervised consumption sites, and access to naloxone to prevent overdose deaths and reduce the spread of infectious diseases.
Access to Treatment: We look for increased access to evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and counseling services.
Synapses
Synapses is a consultancy about drugs. Our social justice approach aims to ensure equity in the psychoactive industry by promoting the involvement of marginalized communities affected by the war on drugs in the industry and in policymaking
2. Public Awareness and Education
We conduct awareness campaigns and educational programs to reduce stigma and increase understanding of substance use disorders and harm reduction strategies.
Reducing Stigma: Challenge stigma and discrimination against people who use drugs through education and advocacy.
Educational Programs: We provide educational resources to communities, schools, and healthcare providers about the risks of drug use and the benefits of harm reduction approaches.
#SupportDontPunish: Every year, on June 26th, we organize actions as part of the Global Day of Action #SupportDontPunish.
3. Research and Data Analysis
We promote research and data collection efforts to inform evidence-based drug policies and practices.
Policy Analysis: We conduct research and analysis on the impact of current drug policies and the effectiveness of alternative approaches.
Data Collection: We compile data on drug consumption trends, overdose rates, and the effectiveness of harm reduction interventions to inform policy decisions.
4. Community Engagement and Support
We work directly with communities affected by drug use to provide support and resources for harm reduction and treatment.
Peer Support: We facilitate peer support programs for people who use drugs to reduce isolation and promote access to resources.
Community Outreach: We collaborate with organizations and community leaders to address local drug-related issues and advocate for policy changes.
5. Global Collaborations
We collaborate with international partners to promote drug policy reform and harm reduction strategies on a global scale.
International Advocacy: We engage in global forums and initiatives to advocate for evidence-based drug policies and harm reduction approaches.
Capacity Building: We develop the capacity of organizations and governments to implement effective drug policies and harm reduction programs.
Commission on Narcotic Drugs
Since our active participation in the United Nations General Assembly Special Session on the World Drug Problem (UNGASS) in 2016, we have engaged in UN drug events, particularly the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND). Our presence at CND sessions has been consistent, participating both virtually and in person, contributing inputs, presenting written statements, organizing side events, and stimulating key debates.