Algeria Hosts National Conference on Drug Use and Road Safety
··2 min read
Algeria's Ministry of Justice, led by Minister of Justice Hafidh El Aktham, and the National Gendarmerie co-hosted a national conference on the impacts of drug use and psychoactive substances on road safety, on Saturday. The event, held at the National Army Club in Beni Messous, focused on the health and legal implications of drug use in the context of the new traffic law.
The conference, organized by the National Office for the Fight against Drugs and Addiction in collaboration with the National Gendarmerie, aimed to highlight the shared responsibility in ensuring road safety. The event was held under the theme, “Road safety is everyone’s responsibility… No to drugs, together to protect the lives of road users.”
The conference addressed the broader implications of drug use on public health and the legal framework governing road safety. The new traffic law, enacted in 2021, includes stricter penalties for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, reflecting a growing concern over the rising number of road accidents attributed to substance use.
The National Office for the Fight against Drugs and Addiction, established in 2018, has been instrumental in raising awareness about the dangers of drug use and promoting prevention strategies. The office works closely with various government agencies, including the National Gendarmerie, to implement comprehensive programs aimed at reducing drug-related harm and promoting public health.
The National Gendarmerie, a key player in enforcing traffic laws, has intensified its efforts to curb drug use, particularly among young drivers. The gendarmerie has implemented stricter checks and increased patrols, focusing on areas with high rates of drug-related accidents. The collaboration between the Ministry of Justice and the National Gendarmerie underscores the government's commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by drug use and its impact on road safety.
Participants at the conference included representatives from various government agencies, healthcare professionals, and law enforcement officials. The event provided a platform for discussions on best practices, policy recommendations, and the development of a coordinated response to the drug problem. The conference also highlighted the importance of community involvement in promoting road safety and reducing drug use.
The conference concluded with a call to action, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and collective effort to address the issue of drug use and its impact on road safety. The participants stressed the importance of implementing effective prevention strategies, enhancing enforcement measures, and promoting public awareness campaigns to combat drug use and its consequences.
