Dr. Abeer Al-Bahwah, Director of Health Promotion at the Ministry of Health, stated that drug abuse represents a complex global challenge affecting millions, requiring international cooperation and intensified efforts to combat organized smuggling networks. Her remarks came during the launch of an awareness campaign marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at Jaber Hospital on Thursday.

Campaign Details:

🗓 Duration: Month-long activities until end of [Month]
🤝 Partners: Kuwait Addiction Treatment Center & multiple stakeholders
🎯 Focus: Youth/teen prevention through community awareness

Key Statements:

On This Year's Theme:
"The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention to Break the Cycle"

• Emphasizes community support and healthcare access

• Calls for global solidarity against drug trafficking

On Effective Policies:
"Drug impact is wide-ranging and complex. Our response must adopt an evidence-based approach prioritizing:"
✓ Prevention programs
✓ Treatment accessibility
✓ Human rights protections
✓ Socioeconomic impact awareness

On Emerging Threats:

• Synthetic drug production surge

• Mental health crises linked to addiction

• Need for integrated mental health/addiction services

Operational Priorities:
🔍 Enhancing forensic analysis of new substances
⚖ Strengthening law enforcement
🌍 Boosting regional/international cooperation for:

• Intelligence sharing

• Joint raids against smuggling networks