From Shame to Compassion: Drug Policies to Support Families of Addicts

The side event on “Drug Policy and Human Rights: Cannabis Regulation as a Humanitarian Measure” during the 67th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) in Vienna, March 14–22, 2024, witnessed an impassioned plea from Mag. Christoph Fasching. As a representative of Elternkreiz Wein, the parent circle of Vienna, Fasching's message resonated with urgency and compassion, urging stakeholders to alleviate parental fears surrounding drug use.

Fasching commenced by shedding light on the crucial role of Elternkreiz Wein, an association dedicated to supporting relatives of addicts through self-help initiatives. With its inception in 1996 and subsequent recognition by the Vienna NGO Committee (VNGOC) and ECOSOC, Elternkreiz Wein has emerged as a vital voice advocating for the rights and well-being of families impacted by addiction.

Central to Fasching's address was the pervasive fear among parents regarding their children's potential involvement in illegal substance use and the associated risks of criminalization and stigmatization. He emphasized how prohibition perpetuates a culture of secrecy and shame, hindering effective drug education and harm reduction efforts. Fasching highlighted the staggering toll of drug-related deaths in Austria, underscoring the urgent need for policy reform to address this humanitarian crisis.

Drawing from international declarations such as the Vienna Declaration for Humane Drug Policy and the Berlin Document, Fasching called for a critical reevaluation of the current global drug war paradigm. He echoed the sentiments of past and present leaders, including former U.N. General Ban Ki-moon, in recognizing addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal offense.

Fasching dispelled misconceptions surrounding cannabis use, emphasizing the need for evidence-based approaches to mitigate potential risks, particularly for individuals with predispositions to psychosis. He implored stakeholders to prioritize compassion and support for families affected by addiction, irrespective of the prevailing drug policy framework.

In closing, Fasching issued a heartfelt plea for collective action, urging policymakers to prioritize the well-being of families and alleviate parental fears surrounding drug use. He emphasized that regardless of the approach to drug regulation, the imperative to provide comprehensive support and treatment for individuals struggling with addiction remains unchanged.

Fasching's impassioned plea serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of punitive drug policies and the urgent need for compassionate reform. As the global community grapples with the complexities of drug regulation, Fasching's call to action resonates as a beacon of hope for families affected by addiction worldwide.