Russia is home to the world’s fastest-growing HIV epidemic. Driven by injection drug use, it is now becoming generalized. A zero-tolerance policy toward drug use in the country bans harm reduction tools and treatment. For many drug users, the only choice is to quit drugs entirely or go to prison.
Outreach workers like Max supply clean needles and health information. Now, with the help of an online network, Max, a former intravenous drug user, also provides legal advice to help people access treatment and overcome abuses in the justice system.

Commissioned and Produced by the Open Society Foundations

Camera and sound: Piotr Malecki/Panos Pictures

Additional camera: Guy Martin/Panos Pictures

Editing: Andrew Hida