Source: Government of Italy (English)
Drugs destroy people’s lives, enslaving them and making them powerless. Addiction doesn’t have the last word, and those who have fallen into it can find hope again. We do not intend to give in to indifference, and will do everything necessary to give dignity and a future back to those who have fallen into the abyss of drug abuse.
These are some of the key messages we intend to reiterate today, on the International Day against Drug Abuse established by the United Nations.
This Government has undertaken extraordinary efforts to combat drugs and prevent addiction, accompanying this work with a record financial investment of approximately EUR 165 million, around double what was available in previous years.
We still have a lot of work to do in order to overcome this challenge but, as Pope Leo XIV highlighted during today’s audience with Italy’s anti-addiction system, the key word is “together”.
Together with communities, third sector entities, scientific organisations, doctors, healthcare professionals, public addiction services, regional and local authorities. Together with all those who pursue the common good, and care about the dignity of each and every person. This has been the spirit behind the Government’s work ever since it took office, and it will continue to drive its efforts.
[Courtesy translation]