The International Society of Substance Use Professionals
ISSUP has a rapidly growing network of over 30,000 active members across more than 190 countries. Because it is a professional society rather than a singular club, "active members" refers to the diverse global workforce of drug demand reduction practitioners who utilize the platform
Core Mission and Focus
ISSUP aims to establish substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery as a distinct, recognized multidisciplinary field. Its primary goals include: [1]
- Professionalization: Helping practitioners access universal training curricula and pursue internationally recognized credentials.
- Knowledge Sharing: Breaking down barriers between research, policy, and practice by offering a centralized hub of evidence-based resources.
- Networking: Connecting workers across different countries and specialties to share best practices.
Who is ISSUP For?
The network is built for anyone working or volunteering in the substance use field. Its diverse membership includes:
- Health and addiction treatment professionals
- Prevention practitioners
- Law enforcement and market disruption professionals
- Policymakers
- Community-led groups, volunteers, and youth organizers
Membership Benefits
ISSUP offers free membership across multiple tiers to accommodate students, volunteers, and seasoned experts. Members gain access to: [
- An Online Learning Hub for courses and certifications.
- The ISSUP Exchange, where members can share projects, read the latest publications, and attend webinars.
- A Member Directory to communicate with peers globally.
Background and Affiliations
ISSUP was launched in 2015 and established in the United Kingdom in 2016. It was originally founded with the support of the U.S. State Department's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). The organization collaborates closely with international health and security bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the Organization of American States (OAS).
How to become a member of ISSUP?
- Take courses (face-to-face and online) developed by our partners and gain qualifications through the ISSUP Professional Development Hub.
- Create your own member profile and share your work, projects, and events via our website.
- Join regional and topic focused discussion groups