Doha: The first day of the National Human Rights Forum, organized by the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) in partnership with the Ministry of Interior, under the title "Human Rights at the Heart of Drug Control: Challenges and Prospects for Sustainable Solutions," discussed a number of issues related to international and regional standards and measures for combating drugs, in addition to reviewing national strategies and measures adopted in this field, and highlighting drug control approaches based on a human rights approach.
According to Qatar News Agency, the first session of the forum, entitled 'international, regional and national standards and measures for combating drugs,' in which officials, experts, and human rights activists participated, reviewed the key standards based on the system of international agreements adopted by the United Nations in this context. These agreements established basic principles governing the fight against drugs, focusing on criminalizing illicit trafficking, promoting international cooperation in extradition, information exchange, and legal assistance. Preventive and therapeutic policies and programs for rehabilitation and social integration were also emphasized, treating drug users as patients needing care and support.
Participants in the session highlighted that drugs represent a changing global challenge necessitating flexible responses rooted in early prevention and a comprehensive human rights-based approach. This approach considers mental health, family, and social factors, while acknowledging that awareness must be complemented by capacity building and community integration.
They pointed out that the State of Qatar adopts a balanced approach in combating drugs, combining strict enforcement against trafficking and promotion with therapeutic and preventive measures. This approach aligns with its commitment to international agreements and the development of legislation and institutions to enhance community security and uphold human rights.
The first session also reviewed the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs 2025-2028, which emphasizes reducing supply and demand, eliminating sources, building capacities, and enhancing coordination and information exchange to counter transnational organized crime.
In a related context, the second session of the forum, entitled 'national strategies, policies and measures,' addressed emerging challenges and sustainable solutions in combating drugs, highlighting modern crime patterns and the role of various stakeholders in combating it.
The session, which included academics and experts, addressed the dangers posed by transnational criminal groups exploiting technological advancements and the digital space to develop drug smuggling and promotion methods, particularly synthetic drugs that evade detection through continuous changes in their chemical components.
The participants stressed that drug promotion is no longer limited to illegal networks, extending to social media and e-commerce platforms, which complicates counter-narcotics efforts. They emphasized the importance of early prevention through education, awareness, and training, strengthening the role of the family, and treating addiction as a disease requiring treatment and rehabilitation.
They pointed out that the governance of financial and institutional policies is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of systems addressing the risks of drugs and psychotropic substances. They noted the need to enhance the ability of countries to tackle this growing challenge at the security, economic, and social levels.
Additionally, the third and final session of the first day of the forum, entitled 'combating drugs from a human rights perspective: a comprehensive approach,' included experts, doctors, and educators who highlighted the importance of supporting recovery and prevention of drug use through comprehensive media and awareness programs. These programs should include family and community awareness, integrating religious, educational, and media discourse, along with enforcing deterrent legislation against drug dealers.
The participants in the session noted the importance of providing treatment and rehabilitation for drug users as a humanitarian priority, pointing out the need to utilize traditional and digital media, youth activities, workshops, and exhibitions to raise awareness and provide opportunities for change for those recovering.
They discussed the national drug prevention plans, which focus on education, family, and institutional partnership, considering early prevention as one of the most effective and sustainable strategies, with a focus on adolescents and children exposed to peer pressure and weak life skills.
They highlighted the role of religious awareness in promoting awareness of the dangers of drugs and supporting recovering addicts and their families psychologically and spiritually, in addition to integrating drug prevention into educational curricula according to age groups.
The session also reviewed the role of the Naufar Center in creating advanced and integrated healthcare systems with international and comprehensive psychological standards that provide appropriate care and treatment.