Chemsex, where participants use drugs to enhance sexual experiences, has been growing in popularity, especially within the LGBT community.
This trend has even caught the attention of Budapest’s left-wing government, which has allocated grants for “community-based psychosocial support” to address the issue.
The Háttér Társaság, an LGBTQ+ support foundation, received 3,383,600 HUF (€8,200) for harm reduction efforts, according to the Drug Research Institute (Dki). Chemsex parties typically involve large groups of men using illegal drugs like methamphetamine, GHB/GBL, and mephedrone, which enhance euphoria, sexual desire, and sociability.
Though chemsex has spread mainly in certain LGBTQ circles, particularly among men, it’s not confined to these groups. Dki notes that a recent conference discussed a new program aimed at ensuring sober attendees at these parties. However, this approach conflicts with Hungary’s national drug policy, which opposes all drug use.
“Ensuring supervision at chemsex parties doesn’t prevent drug use or its harmful effects,” Dki explained, emphasizing that prevention should focus on discouraging such parties altogether. While some argue that criminalizing drug users contributes to stigma, Dki asserts that the goal of Hungary’s zero-tolerance policy is to protect both individuals and society.
The risks of chemsex are significant, often linked to dangerous behaviors like unprotected sex and sharing needles. Long-lasting drug-fueled parties can result in severe mental health issues, including depression, psychosis, and addiction. These risks extend beyond participants, contributing to the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and even deaths from overdoses or accidents.
At the conference, some pointed out that chemsex could make HIV-positive individuals feel more comfortable in their sexual lives. However, this increases the likelihood of infecting others, which presents serious health risks. The Dki emphasized that the national anti-drug strategy aims to protect society, particularly young people, by curbing drug abuse and trafficking.
Criminalizing drug use helps reduce chemsex parties, mitigating the dangers of overdose, addiction, and the spread of STIs.
