Dear Editor,

I am writing in response to the needle-exchange debate. In the original article (September 28), it was not debated whether or not needle exchange was a good policy, which it is. For residents of Phnom Penh, however, the issue here is Korsang’s disregard for the community surrounding their drop-in-centre. Drug users have a right to services and health care. However, when dealing with such a vulnerable population, a professional and responsible structure must be put in place.

The concerns of the community are very real and very valid. Through a lack of structure and rules, Korsang is leaving the local community vulnerable to such things as people shooting up on the street before they enter the centre. This is not an exaggeration; this actually happens. No community and no children playing in the streets should be subjected to this. Residents are not being narrow-minded; they are understandably upset. For Holly Bradford to skirt all of these concerns and present it as a debate over needle exchange is insulting and condescending.

Oum Rithy

Phnom Penh

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The views expressed above are solely the author’s and do not reflect any positions taken by The Phnom Penh Post.