Gender-Transformative Harm Reduction Services

Correlation - European Harm Reduction Network (C-EHRN) released a report aiming to inform the development of gender-transformative harm reduction practices in Europe. Despite the recognition of gender inequity’s impact on substance use, access to gender-responsive harm reduction services remains limited. Services often overlook gender considerations, hindering access for women and individuals of diverse Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC).

The report seeks to understand and identify challenges, strategies, and practices in designing gender-responsive harm reduction approaches that remove barriers and support the diverse needs, resources, skills, and capacities of all people who use drugs. The goal is to create a knowledge base that service providers can use to learn, grow, and position themselves effectively, offering examples of services that have demonstrated their ability to be gender-transformative.

Additionally, the report emphasises the need for education, not only to address current inequities but also to transform the underlying conditions that create vulnerability and inequality in the first place. By examining the historical and structural factors that have allowed and promoted these inequities, it aims to foster an environment where harm reduction services can be inclusive, equitable, and supportive of the full spectrum of individuals who use drugs.

The report is intended to be built upon as services interact with and implement its recommendations, continually evolving to better serve and empower marginalised communities.

Access the report here.

Source: C-EHRN