Belgium Opens a Center for Safe Drug Use

Belgian authorities are moving toward opening new centers, similar to the “Gate” center launched in 2022 to address the drug problem. This initiative has gained significant traction, prompting discussions about opening more centers.

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The “Gate” center, which opened its doors in the Belgian capital, Brussels, has become a refuge and a beacon of hope for a growing number of drug addicts. It is the first center in Belgium where drugs can be consumed safely.

According to Euronews, Bruno Valkeniers, a social worker at the center, stated: “People come here, and they can also use the drugs they buy from the illegal market.”

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He noted that the majority of visitors to the center are homeless, and they can consume drugs safely at “Gate,” which means “the gate” in English, offering them a place to rest away from the hardships and dangers of the streets.

According to the network, the center provides numerous services, such as games and cooking activities, and addicts can come and go as they please. The center also provides medical care, allowing them to consult a doctor, receive help from nurses, or access psychological support.

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However, this center does not allow permanent residence. When it closes, addicts must leave and return to the streets of the European Union’s capital.

Valkeniers highlighted that “Gate” is the only place in Brussels where addicts receive a warm welcome. He added that the center primarily works with heavy cocaine users, especially those consuming crack, noting that 80% of visitors to the center use this substance.

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He added: “This means they are using cocaine, which is a serious problem. When we ask them why they use so much cocaine, they say it’s because of their homeless life on the street. They’ve lost hope that things will change, and by using this drug, they forget everything and feel better.”

Valkeniers believes that “Gate” is only a small part of the solution and that more investment and cooperation are needed to provide shelter for the growing number of homeless people in the city.