News DeskDubai, UAE – In observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Dubai Police’s Hemaya International Centre, in collaboration with the Erada Center for Treatment and Rehab, organized a seminar titled “Human First: Let’s End Stigma and Discrimination After Recovery” at Mirdif City Centre.
Raising Awareness and Combating Stigma
Colonel Dr. Abdurrahman Sharaf Al Muamari, Director of Hemaya International Centre, emphasized the crucial need to raise awareness about the dangers of drug use and addiction. “The seminar aimed to educate the public about the negative impacts of drug abuse on security, economy, society, and health while showcasing the efforts made to combat it,” he stated.
The seminar underscored the importance of treating recovering individuals with respect and compassion. It advocated for volunteer services and alternatives to punishment, and the adoption of humane policies to reintegrate these individuals into society.
Expert Insights and Community Engagement
Expert speakers from the Hemaya International Centre and Erada Center shared their extensive knowledge and experience. They focused on the significance of awareness, effective communication with parents, and specialized training workshops to address children’s behaviors.
Legal Protection and Community Support
A key topic discussed was Article 89 of the 2021 Law on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances. This law protects drug users who voluntarily seek treatment from criminal prosecution.
The seminar stressed the importance of avoiding negative perceptions and discrimination against recovering individuals. Such negative attitudes can severely impact their physical and mental health and hinder their reintegration into society. The potential consequences of stigma and discrimination—such as limited job opportunities, difficulties in marriage, and social rejection—were highlighted as factors that can lead to relapse and further harm.
The event served as a vital platform for promoting understanding and support for recovering individuals, reinforcing the need for a compassionate and inclusive approach to combating drug abuse.
