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Villa Maraini

When Justice Heals: Lessons from the “Drug Emergency” Forum in Rome

“No one is beyond help, not even when everything seems lost.” That spirit echoed through the halls of Villa Maraini-Croce Rossa on May 21st, where international experts, law enforcement, health professionals, and civil society met to confront one of our era’s most urgent public health and human rights challenges: drug abuse and dependence.

Villa Maraini’s emergency unit: a unique model of health and securityintegration in Italy to address drug problems

Since 1976, Villa Maraini Foundation has led a humanitarian approach to drug use, proving that care and safety can go hand in hand. Its 24/7 emergency unit — unique in Italy — bridges health services and law enforcement, offering immediate, person-centered support. Now, aligned with the Rome Consensus 2.0, Villa Maraini is preparing to launch a permanent task force to formalize this life-saving collaboration.

🌟 Honoring Humanity: Dr. Massimo Barra Awarded the Henry Dunant Medal

Dr. Massimo Barra, founder of the Rome Consensus, has received the Henry Dunant Medal, the highest humanitarian honor. In his acceptance, Dr. Barra reminded us that “neutrality does not mean impotence” and warned that “if we remain in silence, we risk becoming accomplices.” Reflecting on his decades-long journey, he shared his commitment to being a “light in the darkness,” a hope that, for many, can “represent the difference between life and death.” Dr. Barra’s legacy inspires us to serve humanity with unwavering dedication.

Alternatives to Incarceration: The Future of Humanitarian Drug Policies in Africa

The PTACC African Leaders Deflection Summit in Nairobi brought together experts and leaders to discuss deflection—an innovative, health-centered alternative to incarceration. Organized by PTACC, C4 Recovery Foundation, NACADA, and TASC, all members of the Rome Consensus 2.0 Alliance, the summit focused on shifting drug policies toward humanitarian solutions. A key highlight was the presentation of the Rome Consensus 2.0 by Villa Maraini-CRI, encouraging a global movement towards compassionate approaches to drug-related challenges.

As African leaders explored how deflection can be integrated into their justice systems, discussions also turned toward future initiatives, including a 2025 training in Lamu, Kenya, to promote health-focused drug strategies across the continent. The summit reinforced the growing consensus that the future of drug policies must prioritize public health, dignity, and rehabilitation over punishment.

Villa Maraini and La Sapienza Rome Launch “THN- R(H)OME”: A Milestone for the Rome Consensus 2.0

On International Overdose Awareness Day, Villa Maraini-CRI and La Sapienza University of Rome launched the “THN- R(H)OME” project, providing free nasal spray Naloxone to prevent opioid overdose deaths. This initiative represents a significant advancement for the Rome Consensus 2.0, emphasizing harm reduction and human rights in drug policies. By equipping communities with life-saving tools and training, the project aligns with RC2’s mission to promote compassionate, person-centered public health approaches. Learn more about this milestone effort and how it contributes to a shift in addressing overdoses and addictions effectively and humanely. For more details or to get involved, contact Villa Maraini Foundation at +39 0665753055