Louisa is Director of Research at NDARC, UNSW. Louisa’s research has contributed to reductions in harm among people who use drugs by generating data on prevalence and burden of illicit drug use and evidence for and delivery of effective interventions to reduce harms at global, regional and national levels.

Dr Kennedy Kipkoech is a Senior Research Associate in Infectious Diseases mathematical modelling at the University of Bristol, United Kingdom. His research specialty and interest are in the application of epidemiological, statistical, and mathematical modelling approaches to understand transmission dynamics and control of infectious diseases, particularly HIV and viral hepatitis.

Drug Policy at a Crossroads: Reform in an Age of Change Drug policies have the power to reduce or exacerbate harm—around the world we see examples of both. As conservative political movements gain ground, advocates face growing challenges in pushing for evidence-based, health-focused drug policies. This panel will explore how the global political landscape is influencing drug policy debates, how legal and human rights frameworks can be used to support reform, and where real opportunities for change lie. Hear from global experts on what’s working, what’s not, and practical techniques for keeping reform efforts moving in a changing world • How conservative and right-wing populist movements are shaping drug policy globally • Techniques for driving policy reform • Identifying and seizing opportunities for change – where, when and how

Based in Brussels now, but formerly from Kyiv, Ukraine. Master’s degree in international economy. Globally known activist of the community of people who use drugs and OST patients, people living with HIV and lived experience with HCV. Since 2010 started his work in HIV and TB-service, Harm Reduction and advocacy field in local and national NGOs in Ukraine. Since 2013 worked for international Alliance for Public Health, coordinating international and national projects of HIV, TB, viral hepatitis prevention and treatment among key populations as well as advising on Communities, Rights and Gender issues. Author of different articles, guidelines and publications for communities and professionals. Founder of PUD.UA/VOLNa. Formerly Board member of INPUD and EKPC. Member of the Communities Delegation of the Global Fund Board and CCM of Ukraine. Since 2021 he is a Programme Manager on Quality of Life in EATG team. Community Manager at the European Federation of Allergies and Airways Diseases Patients’ Associations (EFA) in 2023-2024. Since 2025 is an Executive Director of the International Network of People who Use Drugs (INPUD).