In the latest general population survey carried out by the Cyprus Addictions Authority (AAEK) in 2023, it appears that almost half of the participants, 49%, see the drug users more as people in need of help, and only 5% see them more as criminals
In the framework of this year's World Health Day, the President of the Authority, Christos Minas, points out that “even though this percentage has marked a decline compared to the previous measurement, the fact that almost half of the country's population holds this view is itself an indication of the transition from the sphere of criminal justice to the sphere of public health”.
He adds that “this ultimately leads to the reduction of social stigma and helps people facing problems with addictive substances to ask for the support they need”.
The President of AAEK notes that the vision of Principle “is to ensure that all people who need support and treatment in dealing with addictions receive seamless quality services, but at the same time keep our children and young people close to healthy lifestyles”.
“In the effort to face these challenges, no one is spared”, he says, concluding.
