ISSUP National Chapters serve as the focal point of the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP) within their respective countries. Acting as national ambassadors, they advance ISSUP’s global mission to professionalise the workforce through focused efforts in prevention, treatment and recovery support.

These chapters are established by ISSUP Global and are hosted by credible national organisations or government entities at the national level. They play a central role in building national networks of professionals and agencies working across the field of substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery.

By replicating ISSUP’s global vision at the national and regional levels, the chapters work to connect professionals, facilitate knowledge exchange, and strengthen capacity through training and collaboration.

The National Chapters are a core pillar of ISSUP’s work and play a central role in advancing an effective and ethical global workforce in drug demand reduction.

ISSUP has built a strong and growing presence across Africa through its active network of National Chapters. These Chapters serve as platforms for knowledge exchange and help bridge critical gaps in substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery support across the continent.

With over 10,000 ISSUP members in Africa, the National Chapters are leading efforts in community engagement, professional training, and policy advocacy. Currently, there are eight active Chapters, with three more in development. These are strategically positioned across Africa’s major sub-regions to ensure broad regional representation. Expansion into Central Africa is underway, marking an exciting new phase of growth.

The contributions of the National Chapters provide valuable insights and unique perspectives that are helping to shape more effective and context-appropriate global strategies for drug demand reduction.

ISSUP’s work in Africa is further strengthened by partnerships with regional and international organizations such as the African Union (AU), the Colombo Plan, ICUDDR Africa and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).Together, these collaborations are advancing the professionalization of the global drug demand reduction workforce.

The ISSUP National Chapters in the Americas represent a unique and vibrant community distinguished by their strong partnership and close collaboration across the region. United by a shared commitment to advancing the professionalisation of the workforce, these National Chapters place particular emphasis on in-person training, regional conferences, and youth-focused activities, fostering both professional growth and cultural connection.

Their longstanding collaboration with key partners such as the OAS/CICAD Drug Demand Reduction Unit has further strengthened their impact, positioning the region as a leading example of effective cooperation. Through traditional annual events and the active participation of highly experienced professionals with diverse areas of expertise, the region continues to stand as a global reference point for the value of networks and working together.

What truly sets this group apart is their unwavering unity, passion, and dedication. Thanks to their ongoing collaboration, the National Chapters have become a shining example of how solidarity, shared learning, and mutual support can lead to lasting and meaningful change. The network in the Americas show us that together, we are stronger, and that collaboration remains the key to building a healthier and more connected future.

Our heartfelt thanks to all National Chapters the Americas for your dedication, energy, and inspiring work. Your example continues to remind us that, through unity and partnership, we can achieve a profound and lasting impact across the region and beyond.

The Asian region is deeply involved in ISSUP activities, demonstrated by the steady growth in the number of National Chapters and members. Almost every year, Asian National Chapters organise conferences that provide members with opportunities to participate in a variety of activities, including workshops, training sessions, and meetings with renowned international speakers.

Thanks to highly professional teams committed to continuous development, National Chapters effectively disseminate evidence-based knowledge at the national level through ongoing collaboration with local, including governmental, organisations and training providers. These efforts bring significant positive changes to their countries.

This year, ISSUP Indonesia warmly invites you to join their upcoming event, offering numerous professional and networking experiences!

ISSUP has an enthusiastic network of National Chapters in Europe with 6 National Chapters in the region. They see delivering ISSUP’s mission as two-fold: by meeting their country’s needs to unite, connect and share knowledge across the substance use prevention, treatment and recovery support workforce but also, by making it easier to discover and share their knowledge, training and networking across the global substance use workforce.

Whilst Europe may be a small continent, it has a rich history and diverse culture, and contributions from National Chapters in the region are significantly important.  They remain committed to professionalise the substance use workforce by offering training, sharing knowledge and holding conferences.  In fact, ISSUP Greece, along with several international partners, hosted the ISSUP annual conference in Thessaloniki in June 2024.