On the 26th of January 2024, the Dealing with Drugs – Cities and the Quest for Regulation Conference took place in Amsterdam, marking a significant milestone in the global discourse on drug policy. The event not only delved into how further regulation of the drug market can address the effects of drug-related crime but also witnessed the launch of the Amsterdam Manifesto—an outset for a growing informal coalition expressing the wish for the next steps. Representing the Correlation – European Harm Reduction Network (C-EHRN) at the conference, Katrin Schiffer (C-EHRN director) contributed to the Closing Panel, highlighting the importance of establishing harm reduction initiatives at a local level as an entry point for the dialogue around drug policy reforms.

C-EHRN stands behind the Amsterdam Manifesto Dealing With Drugs and applauds Mayor Femke Halsema’s courage in openly acknowledging the need for a reevaluation of drug policy, which aligns with the sentiments shared by many policymakers worldwide, though often not addressed openly. The need for a more humane and evidence-based drug policy approach is clear, and by organizing the Conference and bringing together so many like-minded advocates, a first step has been made.

Acknowledging the critical importance of collaboration, C-EHRN sees the Amsterdam Manifesto as not merely a conclusion to the conference but rather the beginning of a promising coalition of the willing. This coalition is envisioned to grow over the coming years, uniting policymakers, politicians, civil society representatives, researchers and communities—including people who use drugs, people with lived and living experience. Together, they aim to shape a comprehensive and inclusive strategy for dealing with the complexities of drug-related issues.

C-EHRN is committed to this cause and will contribute to it by

• Establishing an informal City Network consisting of policymakers, researchers and civil society and community representatives. This network will serve as a platform to address local challenges, identify opportunities for change, discuss local problems and share practical insights and good practices, and address the potential of regulation as an alternative drug policy approach.
• Organising the European Harm Reduction Conference 2024 (EHRC2024) in Warsaw from 2-4 December, including a Policy Panel for local Drug Policy Makers and Mayors. In a bid to sustain the momentum generated by the Amsterdam Conference, C-EHRN will also organise a follow-up event alongside the EHRC2024 to provide a space for continued discussions.

C-ERHN encourages its members and partners to support the initiative by endorsing the Manifesto.