Background:
The global War on Drugs has failed to curb drug use and exacerbated systemic inequities, particularly affecting women of color, trans, and gender non-conforming individuals. These groups face disproportionately harsh penalties within the criminal justice system, perpetuating cycles of marginalization, trauma, and substance use disorder (SUD). Traditional punitive approaches have proven inadequate in addressing the complex realities of SUD, often leading to detrimental outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Research Objectives:
This paper explores narcofeminism as a transformative framework for public health policing. Narcofeminism addresses the intersection of drug policy, gender, and systemic oppression, advocating for trauma-informed, gender-sensitive, and anti-oppressive strategies to combat SUD. By challenging punitive measures, narcofeminism emphasizes care, community, and the recognition of intersecting oppressions, particularly for women, gender minorities, and other marginalized groups disproportionately affected by substance use and systemic oppression.
Methods:
A comprehensive review of literature and case studies from Colombia, India, Mexico, and other regions where narcofeminist principles have been applied was conducted. The paper synthesizes evidence to build a compelling case for adopting narcofeminist approaches in public health policing.
Results:
Findings indicate that narcofeminist approaches effectively reduce SUD by addressing systemic barriers and providing supportive, non-punitive care. For instance, gender-responsive policing in Mexico has led to a 25% reduction in harm among people who use drugs, while trauma-informed interventions have demonstrated a 30% reduction in substance use and related symptoms among women.
Conclusions:
Narcofeminism offers a revolutionary approach to public health policing with the potential to significantly reduce SUD rates among marginalized populations. Policy reforms could include decriminalizing drug use for non-violent offenders and reallocating resources to community-based support services. Gender-sensitive initiatives might involve establishing safe consumption spaces for women and gender minorities, prioritizing their well-being and fostering a more humane approach to substance use disorders.