Chasing a pot of gold: an analysis of emerging recovery-oriented addiction policies in Flanders (Belgium) and the Netherlands

Following the paradigm shift to recovery in the Anglophone world, recovery is also gaining momentum
in drug policy and practice in Flanders (Belgium) and the Netherlands. Since the meaning of recovery
is being debated internationally, broadening the assessment of how the recovery framework is applied
in policy discourse and how it is implemented in various international contexts is imperative. This com parative policy analysis aims to assess similarities and differences in addiction recovery vision, imple mentation, and evaluation in Flanders and the Netherlands. The thematic analysis draws upon a
triangulation of different data collection methods: a focus group (n ¼ 14) and interviews (n ¼ 21) with
key figures in the addictions field, followed by analyses of relevant policy documents (n ¼ 9). Our find ings show that a holistic vision of addiction recovery is endorsed in both countries. Although differen ces in policy development occurred (i.e. centrally driven in Flanders versus ‘bottom-up’ in the
Netherlands), similar challenges emerged concerning recovery-oriented addiction policies. While policy makers in Flanders and the addiction sector in the Netherlands strongly proclaim recovery, structural
implementation, dedicated funding, and systematic evaluation of recovery-oriented policies are lacking.
This study suggests that systematic inclusion of experts by experience and aligning government and
practice level funding and policies are crucial.

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