http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v99/n963/a03.html

Michael Massing calls harm reduction "a variant of legalization" that
has now been embraced by supporters of legalization. That some
supporters of legalization have embraced harm reduction is undoubtedly
the case. However, I am baffled by the phrase "a variant of
legalization." Harm reduction is about pragmatism and good practice in
public health, (Harm reduction has also been a well-known concept in
the alcohol treatment field for many decades.) Some harm reductionists
believe in legalization, but the majority do not. Harm reduction is
not legalization. In fact, many legalizers criticize it as a Band-Aid.
Since the two are confused, the implementation of programs in many
countries is being held up because of US opposition to legalization.
Supporters of harm reduction should not confuse it with legalization.
Leave that to your drug czar.

Patrick O'Hare director International Harm Reduction Association
Liverpool, England