Drug abuse remains one of the greatest threats to health and society in general. It is one of the great problems that the world is struggling with and that must be completely eliminated from society.
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illegal Trade is celebrated on June 26 every year. The main purpose of this day is to spread awareness about the physical and psychological impact of substance abuse, drug overdose deaths and drug-related problems around the world. †
Theme
This year’s theme is “Addressing drug challenges in the health and humanitarian crisis”.
This addresses the various challenges facing the world and seeks to take steps to create a world free from drug abuse.
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the issue of transnational drug challenges will be addressed.
History
The United Nations General Assembly decided to celebrate June 26 as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Traffic on December 7, 1987. The main motive for doing so was to take action to create a society free from drug abuse .
Meaning
The day aims to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse. It is also about instilling a sense of responsibility in young people so that they do not fall prey to drugs.
Various events are organized in schools and universities to educate and inform students about the dangers of drug use.
The UNODC website states that you can do your bit for the movement by sharing real facts about the drug situation, including its health risks, to help solve the global drug problem.
This year, the UNODC kicked off the campaign – “#CareInCrises” – for World Drug Day.