New Government’s Strategy in the Fight Against Drug Abuse

The new government, Alliance of Change, is setting its sights on tackling one of the most pressing issues in the country: drug addiction. Central to this effort is the Master Plan aimed at combatting drug trafficking and substance abuse. The plan seeks to reduce consumption and facilitate the rehabilitation and reintegration of drug users into society.

As articulated by Kunal Naik, a psychologist and addiction specialist, the role of law enforcement in addressing drug issues is significant.

He emphasized the need for the government to collaborate with international organizations to strengthen its approach.

Naik advocated for a comprehensive strategy that not only addresses drug addiction but also tackles poverty and enhances psychosocial support systems to foster community development.

He explained that effective prevention is crucial in this battle, which is why establishing a national prevention plan is essential.

Furthermore, Naik argued that bolstering the National Drug Secretariat is necessary for success.

According to him, ongoing work by the High-Level Drugs and HIV Council, led by the Prime Minister, is critical.

He stressed the need for standardized treatment for substance users, advocating for risk reduction strategies and alternative treatments, such as Buprenorphine.

He contended that the issue should be approached comprehensively and that a collaborative effort among various agencies is essential.

The Master Plan, as promised by the coalition of the Labour Party, the Mauritian Militant Movement, the New Democrats, and Rezistans ek Alternativ during the electoral campaign, is outlining ambitious goals.

It is aiming to not only curb consumption but also promote rehabilitation for addicts.

The plan is including the establishment of a research and training center to assist families affected by addiction and proposes the creation of a Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to coordinate efforts among public agencies.

Danny Philippe, a prominent figure from the NGO Development, Gathering, Information, and Prevention, is calling for a paradigm shift in the fight against drugs.

He emphasized that effective strategies must be built on four foundational pillars: prevention, rehabilitation, risk reduction, and the reintegration of substance users.

Philippe stressed that while these pillars are vital, they require adequate funding to be successful.

He criticized previous governments for prioritizing repression over preventive measures and rehabilitation, asserting that substantial investment in prevention and reintegration is necessary to combat drug abuse effectively.

He urged the authorities to adopt a more balanced approach, ensuring that NGOs have the resources they need.

The Défi Quotidien has reached out to the National Drug Secretariat for comments but has yet to receive a response.

The topic of legalizing cannabis for both medical and recreational use is also resurfacing, with advocates urging the government to engage in transparent discussions regarding this sensitive issue.

Philippe emphasized the need for a detailed dialogue, proposing strict regulations if legalization is to be considered.

Naik supported this perspective, suggesting that a pragmatic approach to cannabis could potentially reduce the prevalence of harder drugs in Mauritius.

However, Philippe insisted that any movement towards legalization must be carefully planned and that comprehensive consultations with experts, NGOs, and the public are vital to assess the social, economic, and health impacts of such a reform.

In a push towards modernization and improved effectiveness, the Anti-Drug Smuggling Unit (Adsu) is set to be replaced by the new Drug Enforcement Agency.

This reform, emphasized in the report by the Commission of Inquiry on Drugs, aiming to enhance the agency’s capabilities and ensure better coordination among public services involved in drug trafficking prevention.

The new agency seeking to overcome the criticism directed at Adsu for lacking tangible results, striving for more integrated and transparent operations.

Source: Defi Media