Turning a page in drug control and public health: advancing HCV/HIV prevention through reform of drug law and policy

Abstract

ABSTRACT  A major UN summit on the world drug problem in 2016 is an opportunity to rethink punitive drug policies that have not succeeded in stemming drug demand or supply and have undermined HIV and HCV responses in many countries. Experiences of some countries demonstrate that treating drug use and minor drug possession in the health rather than the law enforcement sector can dramatically improve access to HIV and HCV services. Alternatives to incarceration for minor drug infractions are particularly important in this regard. The voices of health professionals in national and international debates leading up to this important summit are crucial to making the case for public health-based and human rights-oriented drug policy reform.