29/08/2026
EuroNPUD Announces Leo Jefferys as Executive Director
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Leo Jefferys as the Executive Director of the European Network of People Who Use Drugs (EuroNPUD).
Leo has been a dedicated advocate for the rights, health and self-determination of people who use drugs for many years. Having served as EuroNPUD's Acting Executive Director since 1 January 2026, and before that as Operations Manager from 2022 to 2025, they have played a central role in strengthening the organisation's advocacy, expanding its partnerships and ensuring that the voices of people who use drugs remain at the heart of European and international drug policy discussions.
Throughout their work at EuroNPUD, Leo has championed community-led responses, meaningful involvement of people who use drugs in decision-making, and evidence-based policies grounded in human rights, harm reduction and social justice. They have represented EuroNPUD at high-level European and international forums, consistently advocating for policies that prioritise health, dignity and the expertise of communities directly affected by drug policy.
Masia Iwulska, Chair of the EuroNPUD Board, said:
"Leo has been with EuroNPUD for a long time and has always been fully committed. I trust their judgement and integrity completely. As a drug user activist and a trans activist, they know what our reality looks like and how hard it is to overcome stigmatisation and exclusion. Leo is my peer, and a highly professional, recognised leader who worked under our two previous Executive Directors, Alexei Lakhov and Mat Southwell, and we feel so fortunate to have them on board as ED.
"Their unwavering commitment to the rights of people who use drugs, strategic vision and ability to build strong partnerships have already had a profound impact on our network. Leo's leadership comes at a critical time for communities across Europe, and I am confident they will continue to strengthen EuroNPUD's voice."
Leo Jefferys said of their appointment:
"It is an honour to serve as Executive Director of EuroNPUD and to work alongside such an inspiring network of members, partners and advocates. At a time when the rights and health of people who use drugs continue to face significant challenges, I remain committed to strengthening our movement, amplifying community leadership and advancing policies that are grounded in evidence, human rights and solidarity. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, more connected network that ensures the voices of people who use drugs are heard wherever decisions affecting our lives are made."
