Progress and future directions for promoting the implementation of substance use services for forcibly displaced populations

In 2023, over 100 million people globally are estimated to be currently displaced from their homes because of conflict, violence, disasters, persecution and human rights violations. Displaced populations are known to experience many risk factors for substance use and disorder.

This commentary summarises three recent advancements in the delivery of substance use services for displaced populations that reflect collaborations across policymakers, practitioners, researchers and community members. The paper argues for moving beyond asking whether it is feasible to provide substance use services to displaced populations and begin to promote their adoption as essential components of humanitarian response.