International Day Against Drug Abuse 2023: Date, Theme, History, Significance & More

International Day Against Drug Abuse 2023

International Day Against Drug Abuse 2023: Every year on June 26, International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day, is celebrated. The day aims to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve a world free of drug abuse. Additionally, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime publishes the World Drug Report annually on this day, which is a compilation of important facts and figures compiled from reliable sources using scientific methodology.

More than 39 million people worldwide suffer from drug use disorders; However, only 1 in 8 of them is in treatment.

On Monday #WorldDrugDay, @UNODC highlights the importance of prevention and prioritizing the well-being of people and communities around the world. https://t.co/bi45TaBQzA pic.twitter.com/JO4TwQGmhZ

— United Nations (@UN)
June 25, 2023

Incarceration should not be the answer to drug use. Let us promote treatment and community services as effective alternatives to conviction or punishment.

Let’s prioritize recovery and rehabilitation to support those in need.#WorldDrugDay pic.twitter.com/PB2OIJLd2t

— United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (@UNODC)
June 25, 2023

International Day Against Drug Abuse 2023: Theme

The official theme for observing the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2023 is “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention.” The purpose of this year’s campaign is to increase public awareness of the importance of treating drug users with respect and empathy, providing voluntary and evidence-based services for all, providing alternatives to punishment, placing high priority on prevention and act with compassion. In addition, it emphasizes the importance of using respectful language and promoting non-judgmental attitudes to combat stigma and discrimination towards drug users.

International Day Against Drug Abuse 2023: History

According to the United Nations, by resolution 42/112 of December 7, 1987, the General Assembly decided to observe June 26 as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse.

This international celebration, which is supported each year by individuals, communities and different organizations around the world, strives to increase public awareness about the serious problem that illicit drugs represent for society.

International Day Against Drug Abuse 2023: Importance

The goal of World Drug Day is to increase public awareness about drug use, its effects on individuals and communities, and the importance of effective prevention and treatment. It strives to combat drug addiction, improve public health, and build a drug-free society for the next generations by encouraging education, advocacy, and global collaboration.

According to the UN, this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse 2023 is a call to:

  • Raise awareness about the negative impact of stigma and discrimination on people who use drugs and their families.
  • Raise awareness of the AIDS and hepatitis epidemics among people who use drugs and expand and strengthen HIV and hepatitis prevention programs.
  • Promote evidence-based voluntary services for all people who use drugs.
  • Educate about drug use disorders, available treatments, and the importance of early intervention and support.
  • Advocate for alternatives to incarceration for drug-related crimes, such as treatment and community services.
  • Combat stigma and discrimination by promoting respectful and non-judgmental language and attitudes.
  • Empower youth and communities to prevent drug use and addiction.

The global drug problem is a complex issue that affects millions of people around the world. Many people who use drugs face stigma and discrimination, which can further damage their physical and mental health and prevent them from accessing the help they need. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recognizes the importance of adopting a people-centred approach to drug policy, with a focus on human rights, compassion and evidence-based practices.

Source: UNODC

Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: ptivs2.edu.vn

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