Activists trust that the abolition of the mandatory death penalty for drug offences is a first step in addressing the destructive impact of the 'war on drugs'.
Despite international commitments to ensure access to harm reduction, less than 1% of people who inject drugs live in countries with UN recommended levels of coverage of the basic package of interventions.
Representatives from civil society, and national and international stakeholders identify critical areas of concern, from health, advocacy and human rights, and provide recommendations for continuing their work.
Drug policy reform and harm reduction face a challenging political landscape: fierce opposition in parliament and inconsistent support from President-elect Lula.
Government representatives argue that prohibition has failed to stop the expansion of the informal market, prevent harm, ensure security and protect health.
Without seriously addressing human rights violations and promoting redress, the UN Joint Programme in the Philippines risks institutionalising these abuses.
Socio-structural factors, including poverty, inequality and the criminalisation associated with the 'war on drugs' greatly contribute to the incarceration of women.
