This policy brief advocates a paradigm shift towards a health-centric, rights-based approach to drug use and harm reduction. Drawing upon a wealth of evidence from across Europe, we outline a set of recommendations aimed at dismantling the barriers to harm reduction services for people who use drugs. Our call to action is grounded in public health, human rights, and social justice principles, urging stakeholders at all levels to embrace harm reduction not just as a policy choice but as a moral imperative.

This policy paper advocates a paradigm shift towards a health-centric, rights-based approach to drug use and harm reduction. Drawing upon a wealth of evidence from across Europe, we outline a set of recommendations aimed at dismantling the barriers to harm reduction services for people who use drugs. Our call to action is grounded in public health, human rights, and social justice principles, urging stakeholders at all levels to embrace harm reduction not just as a policy choice but as a moral imperative.

Addressing the needs of people who use drugs in the context of HIV and co-infection(s) is not just a health issue but also a matter of social justice and human rights. The pursuit of health equity, as enshrined in the SDGs, calls for a comprehensive approach that encompasses harm reduction, integrated care models, and supportive policies. This report aims to explore these dimensions in detail, offering insights into the challenges faced, the progress made, and the path forward in ensuring equitable access to health services for people who use drugs in Europe.