Marseille: Health Minister supports pilot “drug consumption room” initiative

Tuesday 21 April 2026 - 10:30

France’s Minister of Health, Stéphanie Rist, has expressed support for experimenting with a supervised drug consumption facility in Marseille, a proposal that has been debated for several years.

During a visit to Marseille and Aix-en-Provence, she stated that such facilities, known in France as “haltes soins addictions” (HSA), have shown positive public health outcomes where they already exist. She highlighted reductions in overdose cases and fewer used syringes found in public spaces in cities like Paris and Strasbourg.

However, she stressed that any new project in Marseille should only move forward if local elected officials reach a full agreement on the location, ideally near a healthcare facility. According to her, public acceptance and political consensus are essential for the success of such initiatives.

The minister acknowledged that concerns remain among residents who fear that such facilities could negatively impact neighborhood safety. She emphasized the importance of demonstrating clear results from existing pilot programs in order to reassure the public.

At present, France has two supervised consumption rooms in operation, located in Paris and Strasbourg. Both were initially introduced as pilot projects aimed at reducing health risks linked to drug use, particularly in vulnerable populations.

The proposal in Marseille remains controversial, dividing local opinion. While some associations and residents support the project as a public health measure, others strongly oppose its installation in their neighborhood.

A mobile outreach unit has been reactivated in the city while discussions continue on a possible permanent site.