Public Lecture: Rethinking Substance Use in Austria: The Case for Drug Consumption Rooms

This public lecture explores how societies can respond more effectively and humanely to substance use, with a focus on Austria’s current policy landscape. Drawing on international evidence and public health research, it examines harm reduction approaches that aim to reduce overdose deaths, infectious disease transmission, and other health and social harms associated with drug use.

A central focus of the talk is the concept of drug consumption rooms—supervised spaces where individuals can use substances in a safer environment with access to health services and support. The lecture will review evidence from countries where these services are already in place, discussing their impacts on public health, community safety, and pathways to treatment.

Rather than framing substance use as solely a criminal or moral issue, this presentation approaches it as a complex public health challenge. It invites the audience to consider how evidence-based interventions could complement Austria’s existing responses and contribute to saving lives, reducing stigma, and strengthening community well-being.

The talk is intended for a general audience and will include time for discussion on the ethical, practical, and policy questions surrounding harm reduction in Austria today.