Police “Support” for Harm Reduction in Canada Soon Evaporated
February 18, 2025 by filtermag.org
Police “Support” for Harm Reduction in Canada Soon Evaporated
Canada is seeing a shift away from harm reduction, with senior police officials backing this change. Experts reject police claims that harm reduction doesn't work, pointing out police actions have hindered such efforts. Governments, influenced by right-wing pushback, have reversed decriminalization initiatives, such as in British Columbia. Police leaders criticizing harm reduction upon retirement are met with opposition from advocates and experts who emphasize the importance and effectiveness of harm reduction strategies. The Royal Canadian Mountain Police's enforcement against drug use in public spaces contradicted decriminalization efforts, highlighting the harm caused by law enforcement actions on vulnerable populations.
11.40% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 3.6 million current smokers in Canada 13.70% of men are current smokers but only 9.20% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
