This study examines perspectives on medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) among people who inject drugs and service providers in Kampala (Uganda). Findings indicate broad acceptance of MOUD due to its health and social benefits, but persistent barriers – including stigma, fear of arrest, limited clinic access, and restrictive enrollment rules – impede uptake. The study recommends flexible service models, community engagement, and coordination with health, traditional, and law enforcement actors to improve access and continuity.

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This study analyzes the relationship between political ideology and drug policy in Latin America, comparing government orientation, electoral platforms, and policy reforms over time. Findings show that while progressive governments are not consistently associated with liberal drug policies, most reforms of this kind have occurred under left-leaning administrations. The study highlights the need for further research into how political orientation and party dynamics influence the adoption and scope of progressive drug policy reforms.

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Harm reduction in Southeast Europe (SEE) stands at a crossroads — sustained by community resilience rather than political will. The Beyond Numbers report by Irena Molnar et al. highlights deep regional disparities: while Slovenia and Greece maintain nationwide OAT and testing, Croatia is making progress toward establishing drug checking services, and Bulgaria’s “Pink House” continues as a model of community resilience. At the same time, North Macedonia and Serbia are facing the closure of NSP services, following earlier shutdowns in Bosnia and Herzegovina — leaving large parts of the region without basic coverage. No country provides needle exchange in prisons, and access to HCV care remains limited and conditional. Despite these setbacks, harm reduction organisations persist through innovation and solidarity. The report calls for renewed investment, policy integration, and recognition of harm reduction as essential healthcare across Southeast Europe.

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This rapid assessment examines injecting drug use and HIV in Suva amid Fiji’s rapidly growing HIV epidemic. National data show disproportionate impacts on young people, iTaukei communities, and males, with injecting drug use reported as a primary exposure for many newly diagnosed cases. Findings highlight widespread syringe sharing, unsafe injecting practices, limited awareness of blood-borne infections, and significant barriers to services. Despite supportive policy frameworks, needle and syringe programs were not yet operational, underscoring the need for urgent harm reduction scale-up.

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This study examines the implementation of the global “War on Drugs” and its effects on transnational organized crime and state resilience, with a focus on South America. Based on a thematic review of academic and international sources, including UN data, it finds that predominantly repressive approaches contribute to criminal fragmentation, increased violence, and diversification of illicit activities. The analysis highlights constraints on state capacity, corruption risks, and declining public legitimacy, underscoring the need for integrated policy approaches.

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