Women offenders in Europe: drug problems and drug offences and/or gender-based violence

Abstract

Abstract Worldwide the proportion of women in prison for drug-related offences is higher than that of men. In Europe (27 Member States, Norway, United Kingdom and Turkey) it varies considerably, between 5 % in Bulgaria, approximately 25 % in Denmark, Finland and Sweden, 33 % in Italy and 40 % in Spain. Women are reported to have less dominant roles in drug trafficking, often occupying the lowest level of the drug supply chain. There are, however, recent indications of involvement of women in higher levels of supply chains The prevalence of illicit drug use before incarceration is much higher among prison population as compared to the general population. This excess is substantially higher among women. The patterns of drug use among women in prison are similar to those reported by men, with majority reporting having used cannabis in their lifetime. Prevalence is also high for other illicit substance use, such as heroin (19% - 49%), cocaine (21% - 41%), and amphetamines (17% -64%). Inside prison drug use is often reduced, but exists. The reduction in drug use is in many countries smaller among women then among men. Reasons for this high prevalence of drug use among women in prison are likely to be related to the high proportion of women incarcerated for drug related offences and their high level of vulnerability. Targeted interventions for women with drug related problems who experience imprisonment are needed and should be implemented with a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to tackle their physical, mental health and social needs. The presentation will discuss the latest European data on drug related problems among women in prison and available targeted interventions.