Concerns raised about the rising use of drug in North Cyprus

Concerns have been raised about the increasing use of illegal drug use in North Cyprus. 

Dr. Ceyhun Dalkan, General Secretary of the Turkish Cypriot Medical Association (KTTB) stressed the urgent need for proper treatment, rehabilitation services, and more effective ways to combat organised crime. He warned that without decisive government action, the drug problem will continue to devastate society, families, and the future.

The Association issued the following statement

“Drug Crisis Becoming a Social Problem: Ineffective and Insufficient Response”

“Drug use in northern Cyprus has reached alarming levels. Daily reports of young people being arrested or committing suicide highlight the gravity of the issue. Current efforts to tackle this crisis are inadequate and ineffective, leading to a serious social problem.

“There is a lack of awareness about the dangers of drug use. The government has not prioritised education and public awareness campaigns, leaving young people uninformed and vulnerable. This threatens the future of our society.

“Economic instability, unemployment, poverty, and hopelessness contribute significantly to the rise in drug use among young people.

“Treatment and rehabilitation services are severely lacking. AMATEM, a facility promised to be completed in 2021, remains unfinished and urgently needs to be opened.

“The probation system is ineffective due to poor follow-up, likely increasing drug use. Organised crime groups have turned drug trafficking into a major industry, and the government’s response has been insufficient.

“This ineffective response to the drug crisis affects every part of society. Effective legal regulations, comprehensive education and awareness campaigns, economic and social reforms, the opening of AMATEM, and strong action against organised crime are essential. The government must take determined and comprehensive steps to address this crisis. Without such action, the drug problem will continue to destroy society, families, and our future”.