Chile Country Profile

Drug policy

The Ministry of the Interior is responsible for monitoring and developing the National Drug Policy (2009-2018) in Chile.
The two main strategies are demand reduction, coordinated by the National Service for the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Drug and Alcohol Consumption (SENDA), and supply reduction, which is the responsibility of the Undersecretariat of the Interior.
The mission of SENDA is to develop and implement policies related to prevention of drug abuse, and to develop policies to promote treatment, rehabilitation and social reintegration for those affected by substance abuse.
Some of the principles included within the demand reduction strategy include: social participation; avoiding stigma and favouring social inclusion; rights perspective; intersectional action and collaboration; Gender perspective and cultural diversity
The strategy is considered a matter of public health and seeks to create a culture of care and protection.

SENDA aims to develop a network of services and centres that provide evidenced interventions.
The Government of Chile offers free treatment to people affiliated with the National Health Fund (Fonasa).
There are specialist treatment programmes for women, adults who are homeless, adolescents and those in prison.
There are no needle and syringe programmes (NSP) or opioid substitution therapy (OST)
SENDA have developed several programmes to promote social integration. These involve halfway houses, support to get people back into work and links with social benefits systems.
Residential treatment centres mostly use a therapeutic community model.
Treatment modalities are primarily grounded on a biopsychosocial approach
Treatment centres offer individual, group and family therapy

Preventing drug use amongst teenagers is a priority
SENDA have created several prevention programmes and tools that are free for the educational community.
There are regular training sessions and workshops for teachers to support in delivering prevention material as part of the school curriculum.
The Work with Quality of Life program is aimed at preventing substance abuse within the workplace throughdeveloping a culture that promotes protective factors and reduces risk factors associated with alcohol and drug use.
On a community level, prevention efforts particularly target vulnerable populations and those at risk of social exclusion.
As part of the Driver Preventive Control programme, control checks are carried out in strategic positions to reduce the harm of driving under the influence of alcohol.
SENDA have also developed parenting programmes to support adults in discussing alcohol and drug use with their children.