Harm Reduction Journal

The Harm Reduction Journal is an open access, peer-reviewed journal that publishes research and commentary on approaches diminishing the harm of stigmatization and criminalization of public health, human rights and social justice issues. Harm Reduction Journal encourages submissions on a wide range of topics and we define harm reduction as 'policies and programs aiming to reduce the health, social, and economic costs of a behavior without necessarily reducing the behavior itself'. 

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Naomi Burke-Shyne, a global leader who had a profound impact on the harm reduction movement.
Naomi was the Executive Director of Harm Reduction International (HRI) between 2018 and 2024. Under her leadership, HRI set a new standard for international NGOs by operating in an inclusive, values-driven manner, and fostering dialogue that challenged racism, colonialism, and harmful power dynamics in drug control. She had an unwavering commitment to justice and to highlighting connections between harm reduction, health, and other movements for human rights.
Naomi’s legacy is one of a kind, compassionate, and courageous leadership. She never sought recognition — only impact. Her warm and uplifting presence had the power to bring all those she led along with her.
We are deeply grateful for her contributions to harm reduction and for being an incredible mentor to so many in the movement.