Legally grey? Drug checking perspectives in the CEECA region

BACKGROUND: Regional analysis of the provision of drug checking services aimed to examine existing legal, social and financial barriers impeding the implementation of drug checking services in the Central and Eastern Europe, and Central Asia (CEECA) region and to provide tailor-made recommendations to overcome the existing barriers and facilitate the process of expanding the geographic coverage of drug checking services in CEECA countries.

METHODS: The methodology included using a mixed method approach: 1) Desk review: based on information collected through a systematic review of the available documents, existing reports, policy and strategic documents, legal aspects, and other relevant documents; 2) Exploring perceptions: In June 2022, two virtual focus group discussions with the participation of 30 people (15 people per group) were carried out with key service providers through two regional Zoom calls about the evolving policy environment and the key challenges/obstacles regarding the implementation of drug checking services in their respective countries/regions; and, 3) Capturing best practices and lessons learned from other countries where drug checking services have been implemented successfully, or had failed.

RESULTS: Drug checking services are relatively new in the CEECA region, operating in a “legal grey area”. The introduction of drug checking services in the region is in its infantile phase with some countries providing basic services but are under pressure by law enforcement agencies and lack the financial support or acceptance by key stakeholders and the community. The main barriers documented: 1) restrictions caused by the legal framework and fear of criminalisation; 2) lack of sustainable funds; 3) lack of trustworthy and experienced staff.

CONCLUSIONS: Efforts must be concentrated on removing legal barriers that hinder the implementation of drug checking services. Fundraising advocacy efforts should be oriented to increasing their interest in supporting drug checking services as pilot projects or as an adjunct to harm reduction interventions. Advocacy efforts must be focused to inform the audience to understand the concept of drug checking services as a harm reduction component, its benefits in terms of overdose prevention and monitoring of drug markets, as well as a connection/referral bridge to other sociohealthcare services.