Our next guest has submitted her fourth report to the UN Human Rights Council. The focus of this report speaks to drug use, harm reduction and the right to health centred by dignity. Member states have an obligation to respect, protect and fulfil equal access to healthcare - including drug use. However, state interventions to address drug use disorders often provide limited health interventions and some member states have opted to use a punitive approach by criminalizing drug use. The punitive approach often undermines the right to health of those who are affected by drug use disorders. Many affected by drug use have been marginalized, criminalized and discriminated against for seeking access to health interventions.

The report unpacks drug use where it recognizes the intersection between human rights, criminal law and health. In her presentation, she outlines the transformative impact of the right to health and public health in accessing other human rights. She unpacks the risks faced by those affected by drug use if in conflict with the law or incarcerated: education, housing, food security, employment, travel and social protection. Another important aspect of this report includes the distinction between drug use and drug dependency which leads to disorders. This helps us unpack the medical condition and what quality of care interventions are required - including harm reduction alternatives. This not only affects drug users but their families as well.

Guest: Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng - Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health