28 February 2022
On Tuesday, 28 February 2023, the UNODC-WHO Informal Scientific Network (ISN) held the first of two meetings on the topic of “Treatment of substance use disorders in prison settings”. High-level scientists discussed and assessed latest scientific evidence on the treatment of substance use disorders in prison settings, and how to translate these insights into meaningful recommendations to be presented to policymakers at the 66th Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) Plenary.
Despite some improvements in prison health, there are still significant issues related to mental health, overcrowding, and preventive services in prisons that require sustainable changes in the prison framework. According to the 2022 WHO Status Report on Prison Health, mental health disorders were prevalent among 32.8% of the prison population, with underreporting likely. Overdose was reported to be one of the leading causes of death and only half of the countries ensured access to community health services for released prisoners, highlighting a need for greater investment in continuity of care.
The meeting was opened by Giovanna Campello, Chief of the UNODC Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation Section who emphasized the importance of addressing substance use disorders in prison settings to reduce the negative health and social consequences of substance use disorders and to promote public health, human rights, and social justice. Vladimir Poznyak, Unit Head, Alcohol, Drugs and Addictive Behaviors, Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, WHO, followed with his opening statement and highlighted the importance of a multisectoral and multicomponent response to effectively address substance use disorder treatment in prison settings. Treating substance use disorders in prison settings not only depends on overall policy guidance, but also on the level and nature of collaboration between criminal justice and public health sectors. This collaboration is of paramount importance to effectively treat substance use disorders, prevent criminal behavior and for broader public health concerns.
During the meeting with 44 participants (19 female and 25 male), experts presented latest research and insights on the topic, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in providing evidence-based treatment in prison settings. The importance of addressing stigma and discrimination towards individuals with substance use disorders in prison, especially women, was discussed. The need for comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approaches that involve both health and criminal justice systems was also echoed throughout the meeting.
Susan Maua, Substance Use Prevention Specialist from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), noted that "Lack of data points to stigma", thus highlighting the importance of collecting reliable data on substance use disorders in prison settings and addressing the stigma that prevents individuals, especially people in contact with the criminal justice system, from seeking and receiving appropriate treatment.
The meeting concluded with a discussion on the presented draft recommendations. These are to be finalized at the reconvened, annual, in-person meeting on 14 March 2023 and to be presented at the CND Plenary on 15 March 2023. These recommendations aim to support UN Member States in developing and implementing evidence-based services for the treatment of substance use disorders in prison settings, in line with international standards and the principle of equity care.
The UNODC-WHO Informal Scientific Network (ISN) meeting was a crucial step towards promoting evidence-based policies and practices in addressing substance use disorders in prison settings. It emphasized the need for multi-disciplinary approaches, reliable data, and a reduction in stigma to ensure that individuals receive the treatment and care they need.
