Following a review of currently available evidence on drug policy from around the world, and in accordance with the IDPC Drug Policy Guide, IDPC members have agreed to promote the following policy principles in our advocacy work with national governments and international agencies.

1. Drug policies should be developed through a structured and objective assessment of priorities and evidence.
2. All activities should be undertaken in full compliance with international human rights law.
3. Drug policies should focus on reducing the harmful consequences rather than the scale of drug use and markets.
4. Policy and activities should seek to promote the social inclusion of marginalised groups, and not focus on punitive measures towards them.
5. Governments should build open and constructive relationships with civil society in the discussion and delivery of their strategies.