International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking

Photo by: pexels.com

      The International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking is marked yearly in June on the 26^th to recognize the adverse effects that illegal drugs have on the lives of many.

      In the US, drug abuse remains a significant problem among many youths. CBS News reports of a recent survey showed that nearly two million teenagers between the ages of 12 and 17 are presently in need of treatment for a substance abuse problem, but only about 150,000 get help. Teens are more likely to be affected by drug and substance abuse addiction, as many young people are at an experimental stage and more likely to abuse drugs as compared to the adults.  Thus contributing to the increased incidents of drug abuse among children and youths. That is why to mark this year’s International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, the day has observed under the theme “Listening to children and the youth is the first step to help them grow healthy and safe”.

      This year’s commemoration aims at strengthening action and cooperation worldwide in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking of illicit drugs to create a global society that is free of illicit drugs. It also looks at the threats of drug abuse and illicit trafficking pose on health, security, peace, and development. As each year over 190,000 people are affected by the adverse effects of drug abuse. Many are at risk of HIV, hepatitis among other health complications. While illicit trafficking also nourishes money-laundering practices, leads to crime and corruption.

     This year the United Nation has committed to double its support for prevention of drug use that is scientific and is thus an effective venture in the well-being of children and youth, their families and their communities.

By: Mauryne Abwao