Introduction to drug consumption rooms (DCRs)

After studying this module you will

  • Understand the basic concept and significance of Drug Consumption Rooms (DCRs).
  • Identify and describe the primary goals and objectives of DCRs.
  • Recognize different types and models of DCRs

Introduction to DCR

Drug consumption rooms (DCRs) also known as supervised injection facilities or safer injection sites, are fixed or mobile spaces where individuals can use illicit drugs under medical supervision, without the fear of arrest or legal repercussions. The concept emerged in response to the health and social issues associated with public drug use, including overdose deaths, HIV transmission, and other related public order problems.

The history of drug consumption rooms dates back to the late 20th century when the first such facilities were established in European cities like Berne (1986), Zurich (1987) or Frankfurt (1994) to address the issue of opioid addiction.

In the late 1990s, Switzerland became one of the first countries to formally adopt the concept of DCRs on a larger scale with the opening of the “Safe House” in Zurich. In that context, DCRs were a response to health problems and public order (Hedrich, 2004). By the 1980s, Zurich had witnessed the rise of open drug scenes, particularly in the Platzspitz park, known as "Needle Park," where people who use drugs congregated openly. This uncontrolled environment led to a public health crisis, with rising rates of HIV/AIDS and drug overdose deaths. In response, authorities implemented the "four pillars" strategy: harm reduction, prevention, treatment, and law enforcement, creating a safer, structured environment for drug consumption under medical supervision.

As of now, more than 140 such facilities exist around the world in 18 countries, including Canada, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Denmark, Norway, and Australia (EMCDDA, 2023; Harm Reduction International, 2024).

DCR-Europe
Graphic 1. Location and number of drug consumption facilities throughout Europe (source: https://www.euda.europa.eu/media-library/infographic-location-and-number-drug-consumption-room-facilities-throughout-europe_en

References:
  1. Correlation – European Harm Reduction Network, & European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA). (2023). Drug consumption rooms. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union.

  2. Hedrich, D. (2004). European report on drug consumption rooms. European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction.

  3. Harm Reduction International, (2024), Global State of Harm Reduction 2024, HRI, London.
Updated: 2024
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