2024-11-19 05:35:00
It is probably the drug addicts who attract the public’s attention the most: the “crackers”, these people who consume crack, the so-called “poor man’s” drug (cocaine to which a base has been added) in the form of sweets inhaled through a pipe, it became less visible during the Paris Olympic Games. They are, however, far from having disappeared.
Police prefect Laurent Nunès said in February: “The crack problem will be resolved before the Games. » Two months after the closing ceremony, an observation is widely shared among the ranks of sector associations: if after the dismantling of the Square a large “stage” had not been reconstituted – a place of collective consumption in the open air - Campo Forceval, in 19 ° arrondissement, in 2022, street consumption continues. Still concentrated in the north-east of Paris, on both sides of the ring road.
“Law enforcement pressure prevents any large grouping of users in one place,” explains Marie Ongün-Rombaldi, general delegate of the Addictions Federation, who reminds us that it is not just a question of crack, but of polydrug consumption. “During the Games, consumers hid, others went to consume elsewhereprecise. And then they returned, in small groups. » North of the 10th arrondissement, east and north of the 18th, at the Porte de la Chapelle, or even in a part of the 19th… A geography close to that of recent years.
“We need to get these people off the streets”
“We are first and foremost about a security action which does nothing but move the problem, while what is needed is a set of coordinated public policies, on the provision of care, housing, social issues…”continues the manager. Although progress has been made in recent months with additional beds, redirections to the regions for users who wish it, some hospital beds, some places in treatment for addictions, etc.
AND ” move “ of the problem: this is what the collective of residents “Rosa Craque” underlines, mobilized in the Rosa Parks neighborhood (XIX), where drug addicts arrived in large numbers, in the summer of 2023, while work was underway in the north of Paris, sports infrastructure. “This summer some land was opened to “conserve” them, although I don’t like the word, in a place called the linear forest”reports Ambroise Boulanger, member of the collective.
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Marie Ongün-Rombaldi, General Delegate of the Addictions Federation
Editor: Good morning, Marie. Thank you for joining us today. As we delve into the pressing concerns surrounding crack usage in Paris, it’s evident that the issue hasn’t dissipated, despite earlier projections that it would be under control before the Olympic Games. Can you first share your thoughts on the current state of crack usage in the city?
Marie Ongün-Rombaldi: Good morning! Yes, it’s true—while the visibility of crack users may have lessened during the Olympics, the underlying issue remains pervasive. We are witnessing a shift in where and how these individuals consume crack, often moving to neighborhoods like the Rosa Parks area in the 19th arrondissement. Police enforcement has led to a dispersion of users, preventing them from congregating in large groups, but that hasn’t eliminated the problem.
Editor: That’s a critical point. You mentioned that law enforcement pressure has altered the landscape of consumption. Can you elaborate on how this pressure affects both users and communities?
Marie Ongün-Rombaldi: Absolutely. The increased police presence has made it difficult for users to establish large, visible spaces for consumption, which may reflect a reduction in open drug scenes but does not equate to a reduction in usage itself. Users often find secluded spots or disperse across different areas, leading to a more fragmented but ongoing crisis. This not only impacts the individuals involved but also poses challenges for communities, as it can contribute to feelings of unsafety and stigmatization of certain neighborhoods.
Editor: It sounds like a complex issue where the visibility of usage has changed, but the substance problem remains. What are some of the strides that associations like yours are taking to address these challenges more effectively?
Marie Ongün-Rombaldi: We are focusing on a multifaceted approach, which includes harm reduction strategies, increased access to treatment and support services, and community engagement initiatives. Educating the public about addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal one is vital. We work with local organizations to provide safe spaces for users where they can seek help without fear of arrest, ensuring they have access to health resources, which is often a missing link in traditional law enforcement responses.
Editor: Awareness and education sound essential. There is often a disconnect in public perception regarding addiction and its root causes. How do you propose we bridge that gap in understanding?
Marie Ongün-Rombaldi: Engaging the community through open dialogues and public forums can help challenge misconceptions. It’s important to humanize those affected by addiction—sharing stories, experiences, and demonstrating that addiction can impact anyone. Additionally, providing factual information about the risks, resources available, and the importance of supportive measures will promote empathy and encourage community-driven solutions.
Editor: Community-driven solutions can be powerful. How do you see the role of local government and health agencies evolving in light of these ongoing challenges?
Marie Ongün-Rombaldi: Local government and health agencies must prioritize a public health approach over a punitive one. This involves allocating resources to harm reduction programs and treatment facilities while promoting collaborations among various stakeholders. We need policies that not only address immediate concerns but also aim for long-term recovery options. Sustainable investment in addiction services, preventive education, and mental health support is crucial.
Editor: Thank you, Marie. It’s clear that while the visibility of crack users may have shifted, the issue demands continued attention and a compassionate, comprehensive strategy. As we move forward, what message would you like to convey to both the public and policymakers?
Marie Ongün-Rombaldi: I would stress that addiction is a complex issue that requires our understanding, not our judgment. Instead of merely seeking to contain the problem, we must aim to address the underlying causes and invest in compassionate care solutions. It’s vital that both the public and policymakers recognize that supporting individuals in their recovery journey benefits everyone in our community.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Marie. It’s been enlightening, and we hope to see positive changes as partnerships grow in addressing these challenges.
Marie Ongün-Rombaldi: Thank you for having me! Together, we can work towards a healthier, more understanding society.