“I knew it was different there”: a qualitative study of the motivations and risks of drug policy migrants going to Denmark from Sweden

Abstract

Background This study explores why Swedish people who use drugs (PWUD) relocate to Denmark, in the context of differing drug policy approaches in the two countries. Specifically, the aim was to understand how PWUD experience and value different drug scenes and policy contexts, and reason about the benefits and risks of changing environments. Methods We conducted 17 semi-structured interviews with PWUD who moved from Sweden to Denmark, recruiting participants from harm reduction sites in both countries, and through snowball sampling. Results Key drivers for relocation included: harm reduction service availability, stigma, social networks, policing, and financial factors. Mobility between settings increased risks such as violence, exposure to new drugs, polysubstance use, and incomplete access to care. Participants presented evolving motivations over time, all but one participant reported several motivations. Conclusion The study presented a contextual view of the nature and character of PWUD’s movement. The policy environment particularly influenced mobility. While aspects in one setting may promote well-being, other factors can increase potential for risk. Given the rapidly changing drug policy landscape in many parts of the world, this study offers insights into how PWUD navigate these settings, and can offer opportunities to better meet the needs of these individuals.