From May 19 to 20, the Police Training School of Umeå University was the venue for an important seminar to discuss the current topic of drug policy. The main objective of the seminar was to explore and discuss the role of the police and other law enforcement agencies in the light of contemporary drug policy.
The seminar had several key objectives. Participants actively considered the shortcomings of existing systems, such as criminalization and harsh penalties for possession of drugs for personal use. An important part of the event was a consultation with law enforcement officials aimed at soliciting their views and experiences on drug regulatory reform.
During the event, a statement was made on the need for harm reduction and drug policy reform on the part of the police. In addition, materials from the League of European Associations on Drug Policy (LEAHN) were reviewed and updated, including a statement on police support for harm reduction, the Amsterdam Declaration on Police Partnerships for Harm Reduction, and guidelines on safe injecting facilities, young drug users and amphetamine control.
An important part of the session on the role of police in harm reduction and drug policy reform was a report presented by Vladimir Timoshenko, Commissioner for Drug Policy of the Commission for Eastern and Central Europe and Central Asia. The report presents guidelines for effective and humane drug policies based on rigorous research, data analysis and best practices that support their effectiveness.
