The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, or World Drug Day, is marked on 26 June every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse.
The aim of this year’s campaign is to raise awareness about the importance of treating people who use drugs with respect and empathy; providing evidence-based, voluntary services for all; offering alternatives to punishment; prioritizing prevention; and leading with compassion.
The campaign also aims to combat stigma and discrimination against people who use drugs by promoting language and attitudes that are respectful and non-judgmental.
What is the Theme of 2023 World Drug Day?
“People first: stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention”
This Year’s World Drug Day is a call to:
- Raise awareness about the negative impact of stigma and discrimination on people who use drugs and their families.
- Raise awareness about the AIDS and hepatitis epidemics among people who use drugs and expand and strengthen HIV and hepatitis prevention programmes.
- Promote evidence-based, voluntary services for all people who use drugs.
- Educate about drug use disorders, available treatments and the importance of early intervention and support.
- Advocate for alternatives to imprisonment for drug-related crimes, such as community-based treatment and services.
- Combat stigma and discrimination by promoting language and attitudes that are respectful and non-judgmental.
- Empower young people and communities to prevent drug use and addiction.
