The Harm Reduction International Conference is convened by Harm Reduction International in a different city every two years. Over four days of presentations, workshops, films, networking events and more, the conference provides a dynamic forum to share the latest research and discussions on best practice in drug use, harm reduction and human rights and attracts a diverse group of over 1,000 delegates and speakers including front-line health workers, academics, researchers, policy makers, politicians, UN representatives, people who use drugs, sex workers and people working in the criminal legal system.
The Harm Reduction International Conference has helped to put harm reduction on the map for over thirty years. We platform thought leaders, amplify advocacy for change, and shine a light on local innovations in harm reduction.
What is HR27?
Why we Gather
So why will 1,000 of us gather in Belfast in May 2027?
Our global gathering comes with a rich history. HRI conferences have helped to put harm reduction on the map and to coordinate advances, innovations, evidence, and advocacy in the fields of harm reduction and drug policy for more than three decades.
At HR27, we will spotlight how local leaders are rising, how regions are mobilising, and how our global movement is resisting in the face of existential threats to global health and human rights.
Our Host City
Harm reduction is a movement rooted in dignity and rights, that has been shaped by radical resistance. Our host city knows this story well. In 2027, we meet in Belfast. The city's journey from decades of political conflict toward peace offers enduring lessons in social justice and self-determination.
The Harm Reduction International Conference 2027 (HR27) will be held in Belfast, Northern Ireland on 9-12 May 2027.
At Harm Reduction International, we seek host cities for our conference that mirror the spirit of our movement. For our next conference, we are heading to a city that understands what it means to survive, rebuild and imagine a different future. Belfast is a place shaped by resistance and resilience, where communities have worked across division to create new possibilities for peace, justice and self determination. Its history reminds us that even the most entrenched systems can be challenged and transformed through collective action.
HR27 will take place at ICC Belfast, an internationally recognised conference venue in the heart of the city. Located beside the waterfront and within walking distance of Belfast’s cultural and civic landmarks, ICC Belfast will provide a welcoming and accessible space for our global community to come together.
Join us in Belfast to meet this moment together and shape the future of our movement.
Why Belfast?
A Resilient City
Belfast’s journey through political conflict toward peace offers enduring lessons in strength, reform, self-determination, and the power of reconciliation and dialogue.
A Warm Welcome
With its vibrant cultural scene, renowned hospitality, and striking waterfront setting, Belfast offers delegates an inspiring and memorable host city experience. Learn more about Belfast.
Where Ideas Connect
As a centre for innovation, education, and international collaboration, Belfast provides the ideal backdrop for meaningful conversations and future-focused partnerships.
Our theme, 'Radical Resistance,' reflects the urgent need for solidarity, community-led action, and collective liberation in the face of growing repression, criminalisation, and attacks on justice movements worldwide.
Join Our Club
Introducing... Conference Collective!
The Conference Collective offers a way to stay engaged throughout the two-year conference cycle, strengthen relationships across the field, and actively support the ongoing work that makes the biennial conference possible.
Sponsor HR27
Harm Reduction International welcomes all potential sponsors for what promises to be another high profile, high impact conference. HR27 in BELFAST is set to be the year’s biggest global gathering for the harm reduction and drug policy community and an important forum for professionals working in public health, human rights, drug policy and services for people who use drugs.
HR27 presents an opportunity too good to miss for organisations and individuals looking to maintain or enhance their profile with this diverse conference audience.
Key Facts
1,200+
Delegates
80+
Countries Represented
Vibrant Exhibition
Premier Harm Reduction Gathering
Conference Organiser
Harm Reduction International has been convening the Harm Reduction International Conference since 1990. From its roots in Liverpool, the conference has grown to become the leading international forum on harm reduction and drug use.
Harm Reduction International (HRI) envisions a world in which drug policies uphold dignity, health and rights. We use data and advocacy to promote harm reduction and drug policy reform. We show how rights-based, evidence-informed responses to drugs contribute to healthier, safer societies, and why investing in harm reduction makes sense.
Hosting the Harm Reduction International Conference is a collaborative effort between HRI and our partner in the host country. We rely on our local partner for essential local knowledge, connections and experience. Our partner for HR27 is Extern.
Extern is a charity working across the island of Ireland, established in Belfast in the mid-1970s. Since then, Extern has remained rooted in its founding belief in social justice and in the potential of every person - that with dignity, the right opportunities and realistic expectations, people can change their lives and achieve meaningful, lasting outcomes.
Extern’s work is grounded in dignity, trauma informed practice, and person centred support, with a strong focus on reducing harm. Services include harm reduction and recovery, mental health and wellbeing, supported accommodation and housing, youth and adult justice reform and advocacy.
Meet the Conference Team
MICHAEL KESSLER
Media Lead
Past Editions
HR27 Key Dates
| 07/2026 | Registration opens |
|---|---|
| 08/2026 | Abstract submission opens |
| 09/2026 | Awards nominations open |
| 10/2026 | Abstract submission closes on 2 October at 23:59 UTC+1 |
| 10/2026 | Awards nominations close on 31 October at 23:59 UTC+1 |
| 11/2026 | Abstracts reviewed by programme committee |
| 12/2026 | Abstract outcomes communicated |
| 02/2027 | Early bird registration ends on 1 February at 23:59 UTC+1 |
| 03/2027 | Conference programme released |
| 03/2027 | Final invited speakers announced |
| 05/2027 | HR27 in Belfast, Northern Ireland |
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Supported By
The conference is supported by the Belfast & Northern Ireland conference subvention scheme from Belfast City Council & Tourism Northern Ireland, administered by Visit Belfast, who have been instrumental in helping us plan to bring our international community together in Belfast.