Support, Don't Punish

The Forearms of Change Center celebrated the World Anti-Drug Day with the global campaign "Support, Don't Punish," which aims to develop policies that respect human rights, protect public health and strengthen services to reduce the risks of drug use. The campaign also calls for supportive strategies as an alternative to punishing drug users.

The director of the Forearms of Change Center vocalized his support for Support Don't Punish at the event, which was held on the evening of Saturday, July 2 at the We Are All Jordan Youth Authority.

It is crucial that Jordan adhere to the recommendations of the World Health Organization on strategies to reduce drug risks.

This campaign demonstrates a new approach in addressing drug use by mitigating the harm resulting from drug use and adopting supportive strategies instead of punishing ones. Contrary to the popular narrative surrounding drug addiction, punitive measures have not been proven to be an effective means to prevent and reduce drug addiction and overdoses.

The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Youth, Dr. Hussain Al-Jabour, MP Dr. Muhammad Al-Khalayleh, the Health Committee in the House of Representatives, and H.E. Basha Tayel Al-Majali, head of the National Anti-Drug Alliance, stressed the importance of developing methodologies in awareness, prevention and treatment that are agreed upon by all stakeholders. The retired Major General Tayel Al-Majali stressed the importance of reviewing the issue of the imprisonment of drug users and the need for alternatives, while making sure that the matter is not left unchecked.

Forearms of Change Center is the only civil society organization in Jordan providing HIV- and drug-related support and outreach services.