Harm Reduction Principles and Practice

Harm Reduction can be defined as “A set of strategies and tactics that encourages people to reduce harm to themselves and their communities, through the sharing of relevant information, facts and practical material tools, that will allow them to make informed and educated decisions. It recognizes the competency of their efforts to protect themselves their loved ones and their communities.” (Harm Reduction Considered and Applied)

The Principles of Harm Reduction:

Humanistic

• Recognizes the intrinsic value and dignity of all human beings.
• Does not judge individuals on the basis of their individual behaviours.
• Accepts that moral condemnation leads to isolation of people and communities and is therefore counterproductive.
• Seeks to enhance social and health programs, disease prevention and education, while minimizing repressive and punitive measures.
• Expects accessible, flexible, culturally responsive and non-judgmental services for all.
• Recognizes the rights and abilities of individuals in making their own choices.

Pragmatic

• Accepts risk-taking as normal human behaviour.
• Risk minimization occurs when people make choices that reduce the possibility of harm, rather than the total elimination of harm or risk.
• Identifies a range of risks related to STI and bloodborne infection and the context in which they occur.
• Encourages people to start "where they're at" in order to protect themselves and their partners.

Focus on Harms

• Challenges the harmful social policies and their consequences, including misrepresentation of communities and misinformation about risk-taking behaviours.

Balance (evaluating impact)

• Contributes to the safety and well being of the community.
• Recognizes diversity within the community or communities, accepting that there is no one homogenous group.
• Demands that individuals and communities affected be directly involved in organization of strategies for harm reduction.

Deal with priority issues

• Recognizes the right for comprehensive, non-judgmental medical and social services and the fulfillment of the basic needs of all individuals and communities.
• Supports the development and provision of accessible harm reduction tools and information.