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Location, Eindhoven, the Netherlands

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Topic 1

'Drug Prevention is Better than Cure!’

In this edition we address the question:



‘How can we prevent and reduce drug use?

We offer policies that have been developed top down and from grassroots levels. It is our hope that this knowledge will help governments, community leaders and families towards healthier lifestyle choices and brighter futures.

1. The United Nations



The UN Office of Drugs and Crime, in consultation with member states, has adopted a balanced approach for governments to consider implementing. Importantly the standards include prevention of drug use through a ‘whole of life’ approach - from pre-natal life stages, through childhood, adolescence, adult and elderly populations.



Source:https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/prevention/prevention-standards.html

2. The World Federation Against Drugs (WFAD)

The World Federation Against Drugs (WFAD) has a membership of 453 NGO’s in 71 countries. It’s membership advocates for prevention policies that focus on reducing drug use and its related harms. For example, a good prevention policy should include the following key elements:

• Evidence-Based Strategies – Policies should be grounded in rigorous research and scientific evidence rather than ideology.

• Primary Prevention – Efforts should focus on preventing drug use before it starts, particularly among youth.

• Strong Family and Community Involvement – Prevention should include parental education, community programs, and school-based initiatives.

• Comprehensive Approach – Prevention should address social, educational, and health factors that contribute to drug use.

• Clear Legal Frameworks – Policies should support drug-free environments through regulations and enforcement. (There is no deterrent, if perpetrators always get off with a warning, and/or there is no follow up for those who neglect going for treatment).

• Public Awareness Campaigns – Educating the public about the risks of drug use through media and outreach programs. (Social media can be an effective way to reach more people.)

• Early Intervention – Identifying and helping at-risk individuals before substance use escalates. (This should be for all age groups, not only for young people.)

NB: The notes in blue are in addition to WFAD information.

1. Two examples of Countries that have implemented clear preventive drug policies, with a notable reduction in drug use within their populations.

Sweden invests heavily in prevention and treatment programs, including free services provided through healthcare and municipal social services.

• This approach has been associated with lower drug usage rates compared to other Western nations
• It enforces strict laws against all illicit drug use, aiming for a drug-free society. Drug use became a punishable offence in 1988, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment for serious offences.

Iceland – Youth Prevention Model

Policy: Comprehensive youth-focused approach to prevent substance abuse.

• Key Actions:

Strengthened family and school engagement.

Provided after-school activities to keep youth engaged.

Enforced strict alcohol and tobacco laws.

• Results: Youth alcohol, tobacco, and drug use rates dropped from over 40% to under 10% in 20 years.
• Strength: Emphasizes preventative measures through education, community involvement, and youth programs.

Call to Action:

We sincerely hope that our political leaders and representatives will take note and apply effective PREVENTIVE drug policies in their jurisdiction. If you are not in politics, please send this message to your elected representative.

Topic 2: Watch this space!

The Major Brian Watters Youth Prevention Influencers’ Award

About Major Brian Watters AO