In a message commemorating the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlights the devastating impact of drugs on individuals and communities worldwide. The pervasive influence of drug use on health, mortality rates, and societal well-being underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to combat substance abuse. Here are key points from the Secretary-General’s message:

The Human Toll of Drug Use

Drugs are identified as catalysts for immense human suffering, eroding both physical health and overall quality of life. The staggering number of deaths attributed to drug overdoses annually signifies the grave consequences of substance misuse, while the proliferation of synthetic drugs poses escalating risks due to their heightened potency and addictiveness.

Individuals facing the brunt of the drug crisis, particularly young people, bear the greatest burden of its repercussions. Those grappling with substance abuse or addiction are subjected to multiple forms of victimisation, encompassing the detrimental effects of drugs themselves, societal stigma, discrimination, and punitive responses that exacerbate their plight.

Importance of Prevention

Emphasising the pivotal role of prevention in mitigating the cycle of suffering engendered by drug abuse, the Secretary-General underscores the significance of early intervention strategies. By prioritising evidence-based drug prevention programs, societies can shield individuals and communities from the adverse consequences of substance abuse while striking a blow against illicit economies that thrive on human misery.

Drawing on his experience as Prime Minister of Portugal, Guterres highlights the efficacy of prevention initiatives in combating the drug scourge. Portugal’s success in implementing rehabilitation, reintegration strategies, public health education campaigns, and increased investment in prevention, treatment, and harm-reduction measures serves as a testament to the dividends yielded by preventive interventions.

Source: United Nations Press Releases