The Brazilian 'Cracolandia' open drug scene and the challenge of implementing a comprehensive and effective drug policy

Open air drug scenes represent very substantial challenges to health and law enforcement professionals around the world, especially in LAMI countries. Crack-cocaine users have gathered for 25 years in Cracolandia (Sao Paulo, Brazil), one of the world's largest open drug scenes. Several initiatives have provided treatment, employment and accommodation, but the Cracolandia problem is complex and impact has been limited, highlighting the need for a multi-dimensional perspective and multi-agency response.