Evidence-based drug prevention programmes can protect people and communities, while taking a bite out of illicit economies that profit from human misery, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres noted on Wednesday, June 26. This was on the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, or World Drug Day, which is commemorated every year on June 26 and aims to increase action in achieving a drug-free world. ALSO READ: Increase tax on alcohol, invest in rehab programmes to end drug abuse – experts https://x.com/antonioguterres/status/1805747803496628231 Alcohol is the most abused substance – in addition to cannabis, cigarettes, opiates, and cocaine – by adolescents and young adults aged 13 to 24, accounting for 28.5% of the 3,301 individuals surveyed, according to a 2023 pilot study conducted by the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) across the country. ALSO READ: Let us talk about alcohol, writes First Lady Jeannette Kagame The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) highlights drug abuse as a major global concern impacting the society. Annually observed on June 26, the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking underscores the need to address this issue, emphasizing the theme The evidence is clear: invest in prevention. According to the UN’s Office on Drugs and Crime, the global drug problem presents a multifaceted challenge that touches the lives of millions worldwide. From individuals struggling with substance use disorders to communities grappling with the consequences of drug trafficking and organized crime, the impact of drugs is far-reaching and complex. It is noted that central to addressing this challenge is the imperative to adopt a scientific evidence-based approach that prioritizes prevention and treatment. The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is marked to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse. This year’s World Drug Day campaign recognizes that effective drug policies must be rooted in science, research, full respect for human rights, compassion, and a deep understanding of the social, economic, and health implications of drug use. “Together, let us amplify our efforts to combat the global drug problem, guided by the principles of science, compassion, and solidarity. Through collective action and a commitment to evidence-based solutions, we can create a world where individuals are empowered to lead healthy, fulfilling lives,” noted the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. As noted, this year’s World Drug Day is a call to: Raise awareness: Increase understanding of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of evidence-based prevention strategies, emphasizing their impact on mitigating the harms of drug use. Advocate for investment: Encourage greater investment in prevention efforts by governments, policymakers, and law enforcement professionals, highlighting the long-term benefits of early intervention and prevention. Empower communities: Equip communities with the tools and resources to implement evidence-based prevention initiatives, fostering resilience against drug use and promoting community-led solutions. Facilitate dialogue and collaboration: Promote dialogue and collaboration between stakeholders to enhance evidence-based prevention practices and policies, fostering a supportive environment for knowledge sharing and innovation. Promote evidence-based policymaking: Advocate for evidence-based policymaking at the national and international levels, ensuring that drug policies are grounded in scientific research and informed by best practices. Engage communities: Raise awareness about the importance of community engagement and participation in designing and implementing effective drug prevention programs, empowering communities to take ownership of prevention efforts. Empower youth: Provide youth with the knowledge, skills, and resources to become agents of change in their communities, advocating for drug prevention initiatives and amplifying their voices in the conversation. Promote international cooperation: Foster international cooperation and collaboration among governments, organizations, and communities to develop and implement evidence-based strategies for combating drug trafficking and organized crime, recognizing the global nature of the drug problem and the need for coordinated action.
