The decriminalization of substance possession from the perspective of people involved in chemsex

Background: All people who use drugs, including those who practice chemsex, are affected by drug policies. In general, these policies stigmatize, criminalize and punishes substance users. What's more, the intersection between drug use, coercive laws on substance possession and a repressive vision of sexuality results in the double stigmatization of people who practice chemsex.
Objective: This presentation aims to report the perception of people involved in chemsex and professionals working with them in terms of decriminalization of substance possession. The potential implementation of this policy and its implications for individuals engaged in chemsex will also be discussed, drawing on insights from previous decriminalization initiatives.
Methodology: Semi-structured interviews lasting approximately 90 minutes were conducted, involving 22 managers and counselors who work with people involved in chemsex, as well as 64 sexually and gender-diverse people using methamphetamine or related substances. Subsequently, a thematic analysis was performed.
Results: The consequences of criminalizing substance possession were identified by both the sexually and gender-diverse people and the professionals working with them as one of the factors adversely affecting the health of substance users. Some participants suggested decriminalization of substance use as a harm reduction strategy that would reduce stigma and potentially increase access to services. 
Discussion: Little is known about how decriminalization of substance possession could beneficiate people involved in chemsex, because they rarely use harm reduction-based and other services for substance users. Support for activist organizations would facilitate the sharing of good harm reduction practices based on users' own experiences.