Conference kicks off on drug abuse

A major conference tackling drug abuse and addiction and seeking to build a global network of partnerships between organisations and specialists in the field of substance abuse and disorders kicked off in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

Hosted for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa, the conference has attracted more than 1,000 specialists and researchers in the fields of substance use disorders from all over the world.

Running until May 16, the event at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre is being hosted by the National Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) in partnership with the US Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

Speaking at the event, Sean Murphy, Charge Affairs, Department of State, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) said drug addiction is a challenge which requires a global coordinated response. “People who suffer from substance disorders deserve compassion and care throughout the recovery process,” said Murphy.

“The National Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) in Abu Dhabi is at the forefront of addiction prevention and treatment. The NRC is a true model for the region and for the world and boosts a world-class gap and facility.”

Dr. Hamad Abdullah Al Ghafri, Director-general of the National Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) in Abu Dhabi said drug abuse and addiction is a major problem that affects every nation.

“The UAE is keen on providing the latest medical practices and techniques based on scientific research and innovation in the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of substance use,” he said.

The five-day event has brought the latest learnings from the fields of substance use, prevention, treatment, and recovery support.

The conference is focusing on the theme of the “Uniting the global community to face the challenge of addiction”.