There
has been considerable concern about the perceived number of young
people around the world who are using illicit psychoactive substances. The
widespread concern about the use and abuse of illicit drugs is
reflected by its high status on health, educational and political
agendas in many countries.
In
2010 alone, around 210 million people, youth inclusive, were predicted
to take illicit substances at least once, causing drug-trafficking to be
one of the largest criminal offence that brings in the most significant
social impact to the communities. If
strategies to reduce the use of drugs and associated harms amongst the
younger population are to be developed, particularly within the health
education arena, it is vital that we improve our understanding of the
roles that both licit and illicit substances play in the lives of young
people.
Illicit
drug trade is not only confined to the supply and demand but starts
from cultivation offering young people new opportunities to participate. Research has shown that drug cultivators
are a very diverse group: although cultivation is the most prevalent
money-generating crime for gang members, girls and otherwise
conventional youth are also involved in high numbers. There is therefore
a need to design policies that concern not just the prevention of drug
use among youth, but also youth involvement in the supply of drugs.
World Assembly of Youth (WAY) articulate that youth are
the central actors and vehicle for change. Any program to curb drug
abuse and its trafficking must bear in mind that change starts with the
involvement and participation of youth in the formulation and
implementation of activities designed to wean and dislodge them from
drug use and trafficking. The youth and their peer groups’ perspectives
of their involvement in drug sale and trafficking are crucial inputs to
the design of program strategies and techniques for any anti-drug
programs. Research with a focus on young people has sought to identify
motives for illicit drug use.
Support
of community officials and institutions is a key factor in the success
and replication of any activity to curb drug use and its trade.
Therefore, we assert that Government policies and programs must also
recognize the central roles of the community officials and institutions.
These policies should also support gender sensitive drug issues.
The
policies and programs developed should also recognize the need for
protection and support for youth drug users especially in relation to
their health. In light of this year’s theme, Make Health
Your 'New High' In Life, Not Drugs, we feel that it is necessary to
raise the awareness and advocate for the importance of having a healthy
body and mind for the young people.
Together we can make it happen and have a world free from the abuse of drugs,
and individuals free of drug dependence who can contribute to our
common future. It takes a man’s faith to believe that it can happen and
action to bring it to pass so let us all have common conviction for the
good of our own health, youth and communities.
Source: WAY
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