"Language does not stand still. It is dynamic, and the language and
words we use are always changing. This makes it difficult to be absolute
in the way we use language. Nevertheless, there are times when certain
language and words used in relation to people who use drugs can be
disempowering, divisive, confusing, or give offence.
This guide aims to explain INPUD’s current position on the use of language
and to provide clear advice on what is acceptable to us as communities
of people who use drugs. We want to encourage all people to be
thoughtful about the language and words they use, and have therefore
provided a reference guide that identifies stigmatising language and
gives non-judgemental, strengths-based, and respectful alternatives.
The guide is designed to be brief, clear, and easy to navigate. It does not
cover every possible term or circumstance, as the meaning and effects of
language — good and bad — are context-dependent and culturally determined.
It does, however, serve the purpose of highlighting the language
that is preferred within the INPUD global network, and provides reasons
for why certain widely-used terms might be problematic or even harmful."
The International Network of People Who Use Drugs (INPUD) is a global,
peer-based network that seeks to promote the health and protect the
rights and dignity of people who use/have used drugs. (For more information
about INPUD see: www.inpud.net)
The Asian Network of People who use Drugs (ANPUD) is a regional
community-led organisation for community empowerment, human
rights, and people-centered evidence- & rights-based drug laws and
policies. (For more information about ANPUD see: www.anpud.org)
