As the world commemorates International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Department of Social Development has raised concerns about alcohol as the first drug of choice by youngsters.
International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed annually on 26 June.
The United Nations General Assembly established the day, which is commonly known as World Drug Day, in 1987 to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse.
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, around 269 million people worldwide used drugs in 2018, and these numbers continue to rise.
World Drug Day highlights the global commitment needed to address drug abuse and illicit trafficking through education, support, and rehabilitation.
This year, World Drug Day focuses on investing in prevention and teaching countries the importance of understanding effective drug policies based on science, research, compassion, and full respect for human rights.
The day also emphasises a thorough comprehension of the social, economic, and health consequences of drug use and will highlight ending stigma and strengthening prevention efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
“By uniting globally and prioritising compassion and education, significant strides toward a drug-free world can be achieved,” the department said.
According to the department, people can contribute to the commemoration of this day by spreading awareness, supporting local prevention and rehabilitation programmes, participating in community events, and advocating for policies that address drug abuse and trafficking.
The commemoration was preceded by a National Anti-Drug Awareness Week, which commenced on 18 to 22 June 2024.
The department also took the time to engage with community members from Scenery Park, East London, in the Eastern Cape, which is grappling with a high rate of substance abuse, especially among the youth.
The engagement coincided with the remembrance of the tragic deaths of 21 teenagers at Enyobeni Tavern two years ago, highlighting the ongoing challenge of drug abuse and community efforts to address the scourge.
“The department is concerned that alcohol remains the first drug of choice for young people and the Policy of Prevention and Treatment of Substance Use Disorders will be finalised for tabling to Cabinet for approval.
“The policy seeks to empower the country to deal with the abuse of alcohol especially by children and replace effective policies with evidence-based policies.”
Meanwhile, the international conference is currently underway in Greece by the Global Commission on Drug Policy, of which South Africa is a member.
"South Africa’s participation is to align the country’s interventions with international standards and certify practitioners to provide substance use services. – SAnews.gov.za
