On June 26, International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania is launching "Aware, not addicted," a comprehensive national anti-drug campaign dedicated to prevention, education, and real support for young people at risk of addiction.
The campaign is becoming a national movement, bringing together local ambassadors, educators, psychologists, doctors, influencers, former addicts, and opinion leaders. The goal is clear: to build an active network of information and support for a generation that deserves a future free from addiction.
The campaign will kick off on June 26 with two high-impact educational initiatives: "Power lies in healthy choices," a program held at Secondary School No. 206 in Bucharest, in partnership with the Bucharest Municipal School Inspectorate, and the "Aware, not addicted" meetings, organized at the Teen Challenge Center in Grădiștea, Ilfov—a space for dialogue with young people in the process of recovery and reintegration.
The "Aware, Not Addicted" campaign is a response to a silent but devastating crisis—Romania is facing not only medical and social problems, but a national emergency that requires a united and sustained response. According to statistics, children are now coming into contact with drugs before the age of 13; almost 10% of high school students have used illegal substances at least once; the number of people receiving treatment for drug use has increased by over 70% in the last five years; specialized centers are insufficient and staff are overwhelmed.
The "Aware, not addicted" campaign will be rolled out across all counties in the country throughout the year, with a set ofspecific actions happening: Creating a national network of local ambassadors, developing an interactive digital map that will show in real time the areas where the campaign is having an impact, along with relevant statistics, publishing a practical anti-drug guide for parents, and other educational, informational, and awareness-raising activities.
"Aware, not dependent" means education, support, hope, and real-life examples. The Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania aims to provide young people not only with information, but also with the confidence that they can choose a different path—one that is healthy, dignified, and fulfilling.
