​A strong grassroots-led People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) sector is essential for advocacy and harm reduction. This article highlights strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts aimed at empowering PWUD communities across multiple provinces.

In advance of the Global Fund 52nd Board Meeting, Harm Reduction International (HRI),  The South African Network of People who use drugs (SANPUD), Rumah Cemara (the national NGO working on harm reduction in Indonesia), Regional Network of Asian People Who Use Drugs (NAPUD) The Eurasian Harm Reduction Association (EHRA) and Middle East and North Africa Harm Reduction Association (MENAHRA) are writing to share with the community of people who use drugs key harm reduction messages. 

​Informed decision-makers are essential for creating effective drug policies. Understanding harm reduction is key to this process. It empowers policymakers to develop strategies that protect public health and address the needs of people who use drugs (PWUD).
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Educating these leaders about various harm reduction approaches allows them to make evidence-based decisions that promote the well-being of PWUD. This, in turn, fosters safer communities and reduces the negative consequences associated with drug use, such as overdose and the spread of infectious diseases. Ultimately, well-informed policymakers can facilitate a supportive environment that prioritizes health over punishment, leading to better outcomes for individuals and society as a whole.