Amman: The Be Real Foundation (BRC), Jordan's World Affairs Council, and the Arab Society for Public Awareness from Dangerous Drugs and Narcotics organized an international conference in Amman titled "The Isolation of Stigmatized Selves and the Stigma of Drug Crimes in Arab Consciousness: Toward a Scientific and Humanitarian Approach to Combating the Drug Scourge." The conference was held under the patronage of former Prime Minister Adnan Badran and gathered representatives from various Jordanian and Arab civil society organizations, alongside the Anti-Narcotics Department.
According to Jordan News Agency, Badran emphasized that combating drug threats requires the active involvement of civil society institutions. He highlighted the importance of schools, universities, and media organizations in raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. Badran stressed that investment in education is pivotal for building societal resilience against drugs, as it helps in raising awareness and strengthening character and responsibility among students.
Abdullah Oweidat, president of the Arab Society for Public Awareness from Dangerous Drugs and Narcotics, discussed the link between drug abuse and social issues. He noted that drug abuse contributes to family breakdowns, domestic violence, and unemployment. Oweidat emphasized the need to address social causes of drug abuse while enforcing laws, suggesting that strengthening families and expanding education and employment opportunities are essential.
Mithaq Bayat Al-Daifi, president of BRC, highlighted the challenges faced by former offenders and recovering drug users due to social stigma. He advocated for public awareness efforts to give individuals a chance for a fresh start, which would help reduce recidivism and strengthen community security.
Acting Secretary-General of the Arab Thought Forum, Amani Jarrar, described drug abuse as a civilizational challenge that threatens values and development prospects. She stressed that drug abuse affects individuals' consciousness and societal relationships, isolating them from meaningful connections.
Iman Al-Hussein Al-Awamleh, chairwoman of the Jordanian Women's Solidarity Institute, focused on the human dimension of drug addiction. She emphasized the importance of empowering families and promoting awareness as key pillars of community prevention.
Asif Melhem, director of the GSM Research and Studies Center in Moscow, shared findings on drug-related mortality rates and hospital admissions in Russia. He warned of the global threat posed by narcotics.
The conference also featured research papers from experts in Jordan and other Arab countries, covering topics such as recovery, addiction, and stigma in Arab thought, and the role of the Anti-Narcotics Department in safeguarding society from drugs.