Insights from Prime Ministry Anti-Drug Commission on Data, Risks, and Interventions
A new book titled “Substance Abuse in Northern Cyprus, Trends, Risks and Interventions” was recently launched under the supervision of Dr. Zafer Bekiroğulları. The book, which includes valuable scientific data on substance addiction, its types, and consequences, aims to contribute significantly to the fight against drug abuse in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
The launch event, held at the Acapulco Hotel, was attended by Ankara University faculty members, experts from the International Association of Cognitive and Behavioral Psychotherapies, representatives of non-governmental organizations, and academics. President of the Prime Ministry Anti-Drug Commission, Teyfide Tecel Hatipoğlu, praised the book for its informative content and emphasized its importance in combating substance addiction.
Dr. Zafer Bekiroğulları, the education advisor of the Commission and the supervisor of the book, was thanked for his efforts in preparing the valuable resource. Soner Yıldırım, First Class Police Chief of the General Directorate of Security of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Turkey, highlighted the importance of cooperation in the fight against drug abuse and encouraged all segments of society to take responsibility.
Editors Professor Doctor Nebile Dağlıoğlu and Doctor Sevcan Kılınç Akıncı acknowledged the book as an essential milestone in addressing substance abuse issues. Sakine Aydın, Secretary General of the Tangül Çağıner Children’s Aid Foundation, emphasized the crucial role of combating drug addiction for a healthy society.
Meryem Özkurt, a Board Member of the Turkish Cypriot Entrepreneurial Women’s Association, and Director of Bayrak Radio and Television Corporation, underlined the severity of the drug abuse problem in society today. She mentioned ongoing programs like the “Drug Fighters Program” on BRTK and the upcoming “Mother and Father at School” program as efforts to raise awareness and prevent substance abuse.
The book consists of 10 chapters written by expert academics and professionals, providing updated information on drug use trends, risks, and interventions. The launch event featured 20-minute presentations on each chapter, showcasing the book’s comprehensive approach to addressing substance abuse issues in Northern Cyprus.
