PURPOSE
Since the adoption of the first European Drug Strategy 2000–2004, the EU clearly defines drug-related problems as primarily being a Public Health issue. This approach was also endorsed recently by the CELAC countries through the OAS Hemispheric drug strategy 2011–15. In both cases, DDR policies are considered essential to develop a balanced approach in the field of drug policy. The implementation of such a balance is still a challenge for the CELAC region.
COPOLAD brings a unique opportunity to support the CELAC region in the practical implementation of models and principles which are well established in the EU for more than three decades now, in countries that had to face huge challenges and have a good record of successes.
Cooperation, coordination and promotion of synergies will continue with actions in DDR developed by the EMCDDA, the CICAD, the PAHO (Pan-American Health Organisation, World Health Organisation (WHO) office for the Americas), the UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime) and bi-regional networks of NGOs: RIOD and IDPC. Also, and as started during the first phase, the coordination with other EU funded DDR programmes will be maintained.
OPERATIONAL OBJECTIVES
Specific Objective
To attain a significant number of CELAC countries adopting and sustaining key processes and tools to enhance the formulation, implementation and evaluation of a DDR policy based on Human Rights, Gender sensitive approaches and Public Health principles, delivered according to evidence and quality criteria.
Lines of work
Institutional strengthening in the field of DDR: Evidence-based and best practices exchange and quality criteria accreditation
- Pilot implementation of quality and evidence-based criteria in DDR delivering services.
- Exchange of best practices in DDR for different groups of population at risk, including gender sensitiveness and women’s empowerment.
Sustainable capacity building based on a training of trainers’ strategy
- Sustainable capacity building in key areas that are useful for planning and implementing DDR policies and strategies.
- Development of sustainable planning and evaluation tools.