Holistic approach needed in fight against drug abuse, says Abrahams

Minister of Home Affairs and Information, Wilfred Abrahams has called for a holistic approach which integrates health, human rights, criminal justice and social services institutions in Barbados’ fight against substance abuse.

Speaking on Sunday during a service to mark Drug Awareness Month at the First Baptist Church on Constitution Road, St Michael, Abrahams said people-centred responses were critical. 

“United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres emphasised in 2024 the importance of putting people first by ending stigma and discrimination, strengthening prevention, focusing on rehabilitation, upholding the human rights of people who use drugs and expanding treatment programs and health services,” the minister said.

He explained that this year’s theme ‘Strengthening Prevention’ was deliberately selected to reflect the collaborative effort required.

Warning of its far-reaching impact, Abrahams stated, “Substance abuse and its repercussions pose a major threat to the security of our homes, our communities and our nation and I would include here our churches.”

Highlighting emerging trends, the minister acknowledged, “We have seen an increase in new psychoactive substances arriving on our shores over the past years, along with what appears to be an increase in marijuana use amongst the younger demographic.”

Abrahams expressed concern about the social and economic consequences.

“Substance use contributes to our more productive citizens being either sent to prison or admitted to drug rehabilitation facilities and therefore, unable to make a meaningful contribution to society,” he explained.

“The public health and criminal justice system must work hand in hand in order to close the gaps and to ensure that there are appropriate prevention and treatment responses in place to deal with youth, women and our at-risk populations.”

Emphasising the importance of social inclusion and reintegration, he added, “It is not just the treatment that we have to focus on, it is not just rehabilitation we have to focus on. We have to commit to opening our arms, recognising the efforts of the brave persons, who said, ‘I have a problem’ and sought help and overcame their problem.”

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment, Abrahams assured, “My ministry and by extension the government of Barbados remains committed to organising, implementing and supporting activities that will promote balance of the health and criminal justice based approaches to substance abuse prevention.”

Also addressing the gathering was Allison Gotip, Director of Clinical Services at Verdun and Marina House, who highlighted the importance of partnerships in advancing prevention efforts. 

“The collaboration between the Substance Abuse Foundation, Verdun and Marina, and the NCSA represents the very best of what is possible when vision, expertise and purpose align.

“Prevention can not be carried by one organization alone. It requires a national ecosystem, policy, practice, community, faith-based partners, families and individuals working together with clarity and conviction,” Gotip said.

“Our vision is grounded in the belief that recovery is possible, prevention is essential and treatment must be dignified, ethical and effective.”

Supporting the continued collaborative efforts between stakeholders she stressed, “Prevention is not a moment it is a movement. It is built through partnership like this one, strengthened by faith, guided by interests and sustained by community.”

(STT)