Copenhagen is set to introduce new safe injection rooms exclusively for women, a move that highlights Denmark’s commitment to addressing the specific needs of female drug users. The initiative, spearheaded by the Municipality of Copenhagen, reflects a growing awareness of the unique challenges faced by women in addiction, such as heightened exposure to violence, stigma, and discrimination.
By Luna Thomsen
The new facilities are part of a broader harm reduction strategy aimed at creating safer environments for vulnerable groups. Female drug users often face different risks compared to men, and the new rooms are designed to provide a secure space where women can inject drugs under medical supervision. These facilities are expected to lower the risk of overdose and improve access to health services for women, particularly those who may avoid mixed-gender spaces due to fear of harassment or violence.
A nationwide strategy
The move aligns with Danish public health policy, which focuses on harm reduction as a key strategy for managing drug use. Recent studies have shown that gender-specific services lead to better health outcomes, with women in such programs more likely to seek treatment and experience reduced stigma.
Københavns Kommune’s initiative is part of a nationwide effort to improve harm reduction services. The city already has several safe injection rooms, with the first one introduced in 2012, but these new women-only spaces are designed to address gaps in care. By creating an environment where women feel safe, Copenhagen aims to boost engagement with health services and ultimately improve the well-being of a vulnerable population.
This article is written with euronews.com in mind.