On Liberty EP95 | Simon Breheny | No Harm Done From Harm Reduction
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We welcome Simon Breheny, Public Policy Manager at Philip Morris International and former Policy Director at the Institute of Public Affairs.

Simon argues that it’s more humane, less costly, and more effective to focus on reducing harm caused from consumption of lifestyle products, like tobacco and drugs, rather than only seeking to prevent use entirely.

Choking supply of potentially harmful drugs doesn’t prevent access to, or use of, drugs. But it can unnecessarily result in riskier conditions for users.

The goal should be to reduce potential harm, not prevent drug use itself. Harm reduction is not pro- or anti-drug use, but it is pro-user – meaning that it directs unconditional support to individuals without judgment or persecution.

Has the ‘war on drugs’ failed? Are we too heavy-handed in regulating use of drugs? How can policymakers reduce harm for users?

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