UN Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

Article 12

1. The States Parties to the present Covenant recognize the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.

2. The steps to be taken by the States Parties to the present Covenant to achieve the full realization of this right shall include those necessary for: (…)

(c) The prevention, treatment and control of epidemic, endemic, occupational and other diseases;

(d) The creation of conditions which would assure to all medical service and medical attention in the event of sickness.

  • Harm reduction
  • Human rights

Article 15

1. The States Parties to the present Covenant recognize the right of everyone: (…)

(b) To enjoy the benefits of scientific progress and its applications

  • Harm reduction
  • Human rights

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The Committee on Economic Social and Cultural Rights is clear that all of the following are required under the right to health and the right to benefit from scientific progress and its applications: NSP, OST, overdose prevention, youth friendly harm reduction, prison harm reduction.

See the various Concluding Observations of the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights included in the e-Book of Authorities.