At the conference, Canadian and international experts are set to discuss future of drug policy in Canada. This is in keeping with the aim of the Canadian government — to develop a new and comprehensive drug policy which is based on sound science, awareness for public health and respect for human rights. A major topic area is cannabis regulation. With this, the federal government is committed to legalizing and regulating cannabis and to reviewing criminal law policy more broadly.
At the conference a balance will be struck between those seeking the liberalization of certain drugs and those concerned with the health effects that some drugs can cause. The conference will weigh-up evidence-based policies and reports from harm reduction services. As well as reports from academics and policy makers, time is allocated to hear from civil society advocates (including organizations of people who use drugs.)
One group attending is Streetworks (@StreetworksAB), an Edmonton based needle exchange charity. They tweeted: “We’re at “Charting the future of drug policy in Canada” in Toronto. Crucial discussions underway. It’s time to act!” From a different perspective, ParentActionOnDrugs (@PAD_Ontario) are also present (“We’re glad to join @AIDSLAW + @CANdrugpolicy today for the “Charting the Future of #Drug Policy in Canada” conference! “)
The outcomes of the U.N. General Assembly Special Session on Drugs (UNGASS), which took place earlier this year in New York, will also be discussed.
One group presenting,and lobbying, at the conference is the Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network. It is the view of this group that Canada’s drug laws are harmful and that they continue to obstruct access to such life-saving measures as overdose-protection and supervised injection services. This, in turn, is fueling incidences of HIV among drug users.
The conference is sponsored by the Canadian Drug Policy Coalition and other groups. It takes place at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel, Willow Room, 123 Queen St. West, Toronto.
