The Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania is launching the national anti-drug campaign ‘Aware, not addicted’ on 26 June, which marks the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The ‘Aware, not addicted’ campaign is a multidimensional, nationwide initiative that brings together local ambassadors, teachers, psychologists, doctors, opinion leaders, influencers, entrepreneurs and, most importantly, people who have overcome addiction. They all become part of a national network of support, education and inspiration, designed to offer young Romanians a real alternative: a healthy, fulfilling and dignified life. In this way, ‘A Second Chance’ becomes a national movement that brings together the voices of those who have not given up and who strongly believe that every young person deserves a life free from addiction, with support, direction and hope. This is no longer a medical or social problem. It is a national emergency. Prevention, education, early intervention and, above all, solidarity are needed.
The campaign will run throughout the year in all counties of the country, through concrete actions:
- Creating a national network of local ambassadors involved in organising monthly information sessions, counselling and community activation;
- Creating an interactive digital map that will show in real time the areas where the campaign is having an impact, along with relevant statistics;
- Publishing and distributing a free practical anti-drug guide for parents, in print and digital formats, with clear information about the signs of drug use and the steps to take.
Romania is facing a silent but devastating crisis that is affecting the future of an entire generation. The phenomenon has reached alarming proportions in Romania, where the use of illegal substances is starting at an increasingly early age, consumption among young people is reaching alarming levels, and easy access to drugs is turning this reality into a national threat. Official data paint a shocking picture:
- The age at which children first come into contact with drugs has fallen below 13 in some counties;
- Almost 1 in 10 high school students has used illegal substances at least once;
- În ultimii cinci ani, numărul consumatorilor tratați în ceantre specializate a crescut cu peste 70%;
- Support and reintegration centres are insufficient, and specialised staff are overwhelmed.
The ‘Aware, not addicted’ campaign will run throughout the year in all counties of the country. It will include educational activities, information sessions in schools, partnerships with local institutions, workshops for parents and teachers, high-impact digital campaigns and community meetings.
