The Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi, emphasized the critical need for unified efforts among GCC countries to address the growing threat posed by drug trafficking and abuse.
He highlighted that the impact of drugs extends beyond individuals, affecting families and entire communities, which underscores the importance of a collective response to safeguard the youth and the future of the region.
This statement was made during a workshop on developing a unified GCC strategy to combat drugs, held in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
The event was organized by the UAE Ministry of Interior in collaboration with the GCC Secretariat General and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
The workshop, running from September 16 to 19, 2024, aims to strengthen regional efforts against the escalating drug crisis.
Al-Budaiwi noted the increasing influence of drugs on societies, not only in terms of public health but also on social, economic, and political stability.
He stressed that Gulf societies, especially the youth, are being specifically targeted by organized criminal groups determined to undermine social structures by spreading drugs.
In light of this, GCC countries must continue coordinating and collaborating to address this growing threat.
He emphasized that responsibility lies with everyone, and the success of any strategy requires the cooperation of all stakeholders.
Al-Budaiwi pointed out that drug addiction is not just an individual issue but a societal crisis that endangers the very fabric of families and communities.
Therefore, the creation of a unified GCC strategy to combat drugs demands a collective commitment to protecting the youth.
The Secretary-General expressed his gratitude to the UAE for hosting the event, to the UN for its ongoing support, and to all organizations involved in organizing the workshop.
He particularly acknowledged the efforts of the GCC Secretariat General and its security affairs team. Al-Budaiwi looks forward to productive discussions and constructive recommendations that will bolster joint efforts to protect the community from the dangers of drug abuse.
