HARM REDUCTION APPROACH FOR DRUG USERS: BENEFICIAL OR DETRIMENTAL TO PUBLIC SAFETY?

Abstract

This article delves into the question of whether harm reduction strategies for drug users,  particularly Methadone Maintenance Therapy (MMT) programme and Needle and Syringe Exchange Programme (NSEP), are beneficial or detrimental to public safety.   Two primary public concerns are examined: the proliferation of crime and the accumulation of syringes in public spaces. The theoretical rationale and empirical data from countries such as Malaysia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia are significantly examined in the article. Despite the scepticism of many individuals, a comprehensive examination of global evidence demonstrates that harm-reduction strategies have the potential to reduce crime, rather than increase it.   Research suggests that MMT participants exhibit significantly reduced criminal activity, particularly in the context of drug-related and property offences. Similarly, contrary to community concerns, research indicates that NSEPs with appropriate return policies do not accumulate abandoned needles in public areas; instead, they contribute to their reduction through user education and organised collection systems.  These encouraging results are further supported by recent data from 2000–2025 studies conducted in Canada, Australia, Southeast Asia and others. The paper concludes that harm reduction policies have beneficial effects on public safety when implemented with adequate support and community engagement.  The author recommends the inclusion of local stakeholders, the implementation of ongoing monitoring, and the development of context-specific modifications in conjunction with housing, employment, and mental health services. The article reveals the dearth of understanding regarding the impact of harm-reduction policies on communities and encourages further research in this area.