Toxic drug deaths highly personal — and political — as B.C. marks 9 years since public health emergency began

Nine years ago, the province of British Columbia was faced with a public health emergency declared by former provincial health officer Dr. Perry Kendall. The emergency was in response to a sharp increase in deaths related to toxic drugs and drug overdoses. The number of overdose deaths had been steadily climbing since 2010, with 474 deaths in 2015 alone representing a 30 per cent increase from the year before. This trend continued to escalate, reaching over 2,500 deaths in 2023 and totaling more than 16,000 deaths in the span of nine years.

While recent data suggests a possible decline in these numbers, officials remain committed to saving lives and addressing the crisis that has devastated families and communities across the province. Health Minister Josie Osborne acknowledged the lasting grief caused by each and every loss, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to combat the crisis.

The issue of toxic drug deaths has not only had a personal impact on individuals who have lost loved ones but has also become a point of political tension. During the 2024 provincial election in B.C., the crisis was a key issue, with various ministries at both the federal and provincial levels working to tackle the issue. Specialized experts were appointed to address the serious concerns surrounding toxic drug deaths.

In response to the crisis, a drug decriminalization program was rolled back in B.C. last year, and the province discontinued take-home safer supply for drug users in February. As the 2025 federal election approaches, toxic drug deaths have not been a central focus, but they have been addressed in the plans of political parties.

The Conservatives have pledged to restrict harm reduction services and overdose prevention sites, diverting funding towards addictions treatment. This approach has been criticized by experts like Kora DeBeck from the B.C. Centre on Substance Use, who emphasized the need for comprehensive support for individuals struggling with addiction.

Harm reduction services, such as overdose prevention sites, play a crucial role in keeping people alive so they can access treatment and recovery options. The Liberals, on the other hand, have focused on reviewing the effectiveness of overdose prevention sites and have pledged to recruit more RCMP personnel to combat drug and human trafficking.

The NDP and Greens have expressed support for harm reduction services, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to addressing the overdose crisis. Indigenous communities have been disproportionately affected by toxic drug deaths, with Dr. Nel Wieman from the First Nations Health Authority calling for a tailored approach to address Indigenous-specific issues and close the gap with non-Indigenous populations.

As efforts continue to address the toxic drug crisis in British Columbia, it is clear that a comprehensive and evidence-based approach is needed to save lives and support individuals struggling with addiction. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations are essential to combatting this ongoing public health emergency.