The right to health and international drug control, compulsory treatment for drug dependence and access to controlled medicines 2010, para. 21
Paragraph
Paragraph text
Some States criminalize the carrying of needles, syringes and other drug paraphernalia, contrary to the International Guidelines on HIV/AIDS and Human Rights. Fear of arrest and criminal sanctions might deter individuals from accessing needle and syringe programmes and carrying sterile equipment, which increases the likelihood of unsterile equipment use and disease transmission. Legislation penalizing people carrying such equipment - including outreach workers - has been recognized as a barrier to HIV control.
Legal status
Non-negotiated soft law
Body
Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health
Document type
Special Procedures' report
Means of adoption
N.A.
Topic(s)
Governance & Rule of Law
Health
Year
2010
Paragraph type
Other
Reference
SR Health, Report to the UNGA (2010), A/65/255, para. 21.