Examining stakeholder perceptions of harm reduction programs in New York City

• In Event: Perceptions of Crime in Evolving Communities

Abstract

Harm reduction programs focus on improving public health outcomes and service delivery for people who use drugs (PWUD). Examples of such programs include overdose prevention centers (OPCs), which allow PWUD to consume substances under medical supervision. These programs often face opposition from local politicians and community residents who adhere to the belief that sanctioned drug use contributes to crime and disorder in the neighborhood. To date, no studies have examined the opinions that local community stakeholders have towards OPCs in the specific context of their neighborhoods. To address this gap, our study employs qualitative research methods to explore the perspectives of local stakeholders in two NYC communities where OPCs have been implemented. Our findings aim to better understand the mechanisms underlying community resistance to OPCs, and to shed light on the challenges associated with adopting policies and practices that are aligned with the harm reduction model.

Authors

• Katheryne Pugliese, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

• Lila Kazemian, John Jay College of Criminal Justice