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New approach in Thailand: recognize drug users as patients!
Harm Reduction Discussion in Thailand: “Bridging Justice & Health” event addresses health approaches for drug users.
New approach in Thailand: recognize drug users as patients!
On November 3, 2025, the “Bridging Justice & Health” event was held in Bangkok, organized by various organizations such as FAIR, UNODC, RSAT, IHRI and Bangkok Police. Over 150 participants came together to discuss the explosive topic of harm reduction in the context of drug use. This meeting underlined the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and civil society to see drug users as part of the solution rather than a problem. The goal is a clear shift from classic criminal prosecution to promoting health and protecting human rights.
In their speeches, those responsible emphasized that it is essential to integrate drug users into health processes. RSAT's Gittinan Thammathat argued that lawmakers should make these users the focus of their reforms. Dr. Nittaya Panupak of IHRI stressed the need to create a clear separation between drug users and drug traffickers. Their different needs ultimately required different approaches.
Developments in drug policy
Thailand has undergone a remarkable shift in drug policy in recent years after adopting a new drug law in 2021 that promotes treatment and rehabilitation. These reforms meant that drug users are now considered patients receiving free care from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHSO). After the reform, drug users should have easy access to health services.
But despite this progress, there are worrying developments. Thai Prime Minister Sretta Thavisin announced that cannabis would be reclassified as a narcotic and the possession limit for methamphetamine would be significantly lowered. Such measures could jeopardize the success of previous reforms and mean a return to failed drug policies of the past. Critics fear this will increase pressure on drug users and discourage them from seeking help, jeopardizing health promotion.
The risks to society
Recent reports show that Bangkok is struggling with challenges resulting in prison overcrowding. The incarceration rate for drug offenses is alarmingly high: over 70% of prisoners are in prison for drugs. In May 2024, there were 287,050 people in custody and 210,851 were imprisoned for drug offenses. This could not only affect the quality of life of those affected, but also endanger social stability.
The government's policies could once again lead to drug users being perceived as criminals rather than sick people. This development contradicts the goals of the National Drug Strategy 2023-2027, which advocates human rights and a balanced drug policy. Where is the balance when the number of drug users worldwide is increasing, particularly in the case of cannabis and opioids?
All of these points show that Thailand is in a critical phase of its drug strategy. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether progress in mitigation can continue or whether a return to old patterns is inevitable. The voices of civil society must be heard loud and clear to promote the change needed.
At a time when the focus is on health and human rights, any step towards harm reduction should also be seen as a step in the right direction for society as a whole. The upcoming debate about rethinking drug law could be the key to an inclusive, health-focused future. Further information on the topic can be found in the articles from The coverage, Cambridge Dictionary as well as IDPC.