With deep sadness, the International Network of People who Use Drugs (INPUD) mourns the passing of Theo van Dam — a legendary activist, movement builder, and uncompromising voice for the rights and dignity of people who use drugs in the Netherlands, across Europe, and globally.
Theo was one of the pioneers of the Dutch drug user movement in the 1990s and 2000s. At a time when stigma was suffocating and our communities were fighting simply to survive, Theo stood firm. He strengthened local drug user organisations in the Netherlands and later extended his solidarity and expertise across Europe, helping to lay foundations for networks that continue to fight for health, human rights, and self-determination.
He was one of the heroes of INPUD and part of the powerful Drugreporter documentary “Taking Back What’s Ours” (part 1), which captured the spirit of resistance and self-organisation of people who use drugs in the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. https://youtu.be/9pwebYipTrg?si=rJUKPyNlxJQhS0Hd
Theo believed deeply that our movement must be led by those most affected — and he lived that principle without compromise.
Those who worked with him, including through harm reduction and HIV advocacy initiatives such as Mainline, remember his courage, his sharp mind, his unwavering commitment, and his ability to inspire. He was always driven by principle, justice, and love for his community. His straightforwardness, stubborn integrity, and fierce loyalty made collaborations fruitful and meaningful. He connected people, strengthened organisations, and pushed us all to be braver.
Theo was a unique personality — a rebel with a cause, and a comrade to many. His legacy lives on in the networks he built, the rights advanced, and the lives saved through collective struggle.
Rest in power, Theo.
You took back what was ours — and you showed us how to keep fighting for it.