26 June: From Punishment to Public Health
For decades, 26 June has been observed as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking- a name and narrative that no longer reflect the evidence, public health, or human rights.
Around the world, communities, health professionals, and civil society are reclaiming this day through the Support. Don’t Punish. campaign, calling for policies that prioritize health, dignity, and inclusion over punishment.
Encouragingly, Ireland has taken an important step forward. A cross-party parliamentary committee has recommended:
- Decriminalization of possession for personal use
- Expansion of harm reduction services
- Evidence-based treatment and care
- A public health approach to drug policy
This demonstrates that meaningful reform is possible when policy is guided by evidence rather than ideology.
At the Southeast Asia Harm Reduction Association (AHRA), we believe effective drug policies should put people first:
- Health over punishment
- Harm reduction over stigma
- Human rights over criminalization
- Support, dignity, and inclusion for all
On this 26 June, we stand with colleagues worldwide in supporting evidence-informed, compassionate, and rights-based responses that improve the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities.
Support. Don’t Punish. Because health and human rights matter.
Read about the Irish roadmap here;
#SupportDontPunish #HarmReduction #PublicHealth #HumanRights #DrugPolicyReform #HealthForAll #EndStigma #SoutheastAsia #AHRA #Ireland
