International Women's Day

WHRIN (Women and Harm Reduction International Network)

On International Women’s Day 2019, the Women and Harm Reduction International Network (WHRIN) wishes to highlight the lack of balance surrounding the sexual and reproductive health and parenting rights experienced by women who use drugs (WUD).

The issue of state intervention in the sexual and reproductive health and parenting rights of WUD is one of the many neglected areas related to the criminalization of drug use that disproportionally affect the lives of WUD around the world.

Due to the criminalisation of drug use, the choices WUD have regarding their sexual and reproductive health are often restricted and children are frequently removed from mothers who are competent parents. Consequently, women are often reluctant to disclose their drug use when seeking healthcare through fear of coercion and/or losing their children. Additionally, women who do venture to seek support are subject to harsher judgement and scrutiny if they are pregnant or have children.

WHRIN points out that drug use does not equate to bad decision making nor improper parenting and that all women should be free to have open and honest conversations about their sexual and reproductive health, parenting practices and drug use without fear of judgement and discrimination. Being able to seek health services, support and information without fear of reprisal is key to realising sexual and reproductive health and parenting rights for WUD.

The full statement can be found in the link below.