A new guidance note by UNAIDS, UNDP, INPUD, Release and HRDP outlines how decriminalizing drug use and possession for personal use can strengthen the global HIV response through more effective, rights-based drug policies.
Based on lessons from countries that have already moved away from punitive approaches, the document examines how criminalization undermines access to health services, increases stigma, and worsens HIV outcomes among people who use drugs. It highlights practical policy options and “promising practices” to help governments design decriminalization models that better protect the right to health while supporting evidence-based HIV prevention and care.
Decriminalization of drug use in the context of HIV – a guidance note