International Drug Policy Consortium

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International Drug Policy Consortium

The International Drug Policy Consortium (IDPC) is a global network of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and professional networks that specialize in issues related to drug policy. The IDPC aims to promote objective and open debate on the effectiveness, direction, and content of national and international drug policies, and to advance policies that are grounded in evidence, human rights, public health, and development principles.

History

The IDPC was established in 2006 in response to the growing need for a coordinated and informed voice in the global drug policy debate. The consortium was formed by a group of NGOs that recognized the importance of collaboration and information sharing to influence drug policy reform.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the IDPC is to promote drug policies that are effective, humane, and equitable. The consortium's objectives include:

• Advocating for drug policies that are based on evidence and respect for human rights.
• Providing a platform for NGOs to share information and coordinate advocacy efforts.
• Engaging with international bodies such as the United Nations and regional organizations to influence drug policy.
• Supporting the capacity building of civil society organizations to engage in drug policy advocacy.

Activities

The IDPC engages in a variety of activities to achieve its mission, including:

• Publishing reports, briefings, and policy papers on key drug policy issues.
• Organizing conferences, workshops, and seminars to facilitate dialogue and knowledge exchange.
• Providing technical assistance and capacity-building support to member organizations.
• Coordinating advocacy campaigns at national, regional, and international levels.

Membership

The IDPC's membership comprises over 190 organizations from around the world, including NGOs, academic institutions, and professional networks. Members work on a wide range of issues related to drug policy, including harm reduction, drug decriminalization, and drug treatment.

Governance

The IDPC is governed by a Steering Group, which is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the consortium. The Steering Group is composed of representatives from member organizations and is supported by a Secretariat based in London, United Kingdom.

Key Issues

The IDPC focuses on several key issues in drug policy, including:

• Harm reduction: Promoting policies and practices that reduce the negative health and social consequences of drug use.
• Decriminalization: Advocating for the removal of criminal penalties for drug possession and use.
• Human rights: Ensuring that drug policies respect and protect the human rights of individuals.
• Public health: Promoting drug policies that prioritize public health over punitive approaches.
• Development: Addressing the impact of drug policies on development and poverty reduction.

Publications

The IDPC produces a range of publications, including:

• The IDPC Drug Policy Guide: A comprehensive resource for policymakers and advocates on effective drug policy.
• Annual reports on the state of global drug policy.
• Thematic briefings on specific issues such as cannabis regulation, opioid crisis, and drug policy and human rights.

See Also

• Harm reduction
• Drug decriminalization
• Drug policy reform
• Global Commission on Drug Policy
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime