NCJ Number
164212
Date Published
1994
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This paper attempts to develop a cohesive United Nations systemwide position on women and drug abuse.
Abstract
The objectives of the paper are to inform the international community about the existence and seriousness of the issues of women drug users, of women who are affected by the drug use of others, and to provide an overview of these issues; to urge policymakers to recognize and use women to reduce drug supply and demand; and to promote gender-sensitive approaches, acknowledging and involving both females and males, from communities and countries, to reduce drug abuse. The report contains four main chapters: (1) Gender Analysis of Drug Abuse in a Socio-Cultural Context; (2) Social and Health Implications of Drug Abuse; (3) Drug Supply, Migration and Employment Implications; and (4) Programs and Policy Responses. Problems related to women and drug abuse cannot be separated from the overall status of women in a society and it is necessary to address male-female relationships together with their differential drug use patterns. The report contains recommended actions by: the international community; health, social and employment services; educators; and researchers. Appendixes, references