As the global discussion  around drug policies evolves, the need for gender-responsive approaches has become increasingly evident. Despite growing awareness, gender perspectives remain inconsistently integrated into national frameworks, often focusing narrowly on women while overlooking broader gender dynamics. More structured efforts are required to incorporate existing guidelines into policy frameworks, ensuring inclusive and effective interventions for all individuals affected by drug use and addiction.
 

To address this challenge, UNICRI, in collaboration with the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) and the Pompidou Group of the Council of Europe, with the support of Canada,  Italy, Peru and Sweden  is hosting a side event titled "Towards Consensus on Gender-Responsive Drug Policies." The event takes  place on the margins of the 68th Session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs, at the Vienna International Centre, on 14 March 2025, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM in Room M3 and aims to l bring together policymakers, researchers, and international organizations to explore strategies for integrating gender-responsive principles into drug policies worldwide. 

The event can be also followed online at: https://zoom.us/j/94533537619 (Meeting ID: 945 3353 7619)

The intersection between gender and drug policies has gained increasing attention in recent years, with various reports and guidelines highlighting the importance of a gender-responsive approach. However, the integration of gender perspectives in drug policies remains inconsistent, often focusing primarily on women while overlooking broader gender considerations. More efforts are needed to incorporate existing standards and guidelines into national programmes and encourage a systematic gender perspective in drug-related policies.
The side event will bring together key stakeholders to take stock of past and ongoing efforts, fostering dialogue and cooperation towards policies that recognize the diverse needs and experiences of those affected by drug use and addiction. This initiative, initially launched with the support of Italy, has evolved through contributions from leading experts in academia and research.
 

Key discussion points
•    Integration of gender considerations in national drug policy frameworks and statistical data.
•    Existing requirements and standards for gender-responsive interventions.
•    Trauma-informed approaches in drug-related policies and services.
•    Key recommendations from the October 2024 symposium in Lisbon, held during the EUDA Addiction Conference, focusing on moving from theory to practice.
 

Why attend?
This side event offers a platform to advance the integration of gender perspectives in drug policies, ensuring that interventions are inclusive, evidence-based, and aligned with international standards. By fostering dialogue and cooperation among policymakers, researchers, and international organizations, this event aims to bridge the gap between research and implementation, moving towards a shared vision for gender-responsive drug policies globally.
Join us in shaping more inclusive and effective drug policies!