KUWAIT CITY, June 12: Dr. Abeer Al-Bahou, Director of the Health Promotion Department at the Ministry of Health, affirmed that drug abuse remains a complex and pressing global challenge, affecting millions of lives and demanding coordinated international efforts to confront organized smuggling networks.

Her remarks came during the launch of a national awareness campaign held Thursday at Jaber Hospital, coinciding with the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The campaign will run through the end of June and targets youth and adolescents in particular, aiming to prevent addiction and promote healthy, informed choices.

Dr. Al-Bahou noted that this year’s campaign is being held under the theme: “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention to Break the Cycle.” The slogan underscores the critical need to support communities, provide effective health care, and strengthen global solidarity in the fight against drug abuse and illegal trafficking.

She stressed that addressing the far-reaching and complex impact of drugs requires adopting a scientifically grounded approach focused on prevention and treatment. Effective anti-drug policies, she emphasized, must be rooted in evidence, research, human rights, empathy, and a deep understanding of the social, economic, and health consequences of addiction.

Dr. Al-Bahou further highlighted the growing global threat posed by the rising production of synthetic drugs and the psychological crises often linked to addiction. These developments, she said, necessitate greater integration between mental health services and addiction treatment.

She also called for raising public awareness of the dangers posed by synthetic and digital drugs, while emphasizing the need to strengthen forensic capabilities, improve detection of emerging substances, enforce legal measures, and intensify international and regional cooperation. This includes information sharing and coordinated raids to dismantle transnational smuggling operations.

The campaign reflects Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to addressing drug abuse through education, policy, and public health intervention, while aligning with global efforts to combat the illicit drug trade.