In Sweden, a Proposal for Nationwide Needle-Exchange for Drug Addicts

Sweden's drug policy coordinator said Wednesday that it should follow international examples and permit nationwide needle exchange programs. Such programs are credited with curbing the spread of HIV and hepatitis C in other countries, although Sweden has been reluctant to implement a national needle exchange policy. In his proposal to the center-left Social Democratic government, drug policy coordinator Bjoern Fries said that two trial programs in the southern cities of Malmoe and Lund showed positive results. He added that they should be expanded on a nationwide scale, only if local authorities offer full drug treatment programs, including detoxification and counseling. The Health Ministry would not comment on the proposal until it faces expert review, spokesperson Kicki Maehler said.

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