UNODC and Partners support the Sports Festival in preventing drug use among youth of Kyrgyzstan 

The world drug problem is a complex issue affecting millions worldwide. Many drug users face stigma and discrimination, which can further harm their physical and mental health and prevent them from accessing the needed help. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recognizes the importance of a people-centered approach to drug policies, focusing on human rights, compassion, and evidence-based practices.

 

UNODC, OSCE, and the Counter Narcotic Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic supported the awareness-raising sports festival called “Jetkinchek” (achievement) aimed at popularizing sports and promoting a healthy lifestyle among young people, preventing drug use and crime. 

 

Organized by the Department of Physical Culture and Sport, tourism, and working with youth of the Mayor’s office of Bishkek city, the festival gathered over 300 people at the sport and recreation complex “Gazprom for Children.” Youth aged 10 – 16 competed in futsal, chess, judo, taekwondo, and wrestling (freestyle and Greco-Roman).

UNODC Programme Office in the Kyrgyz Republic, together with the Counter Narcotic Service, started marking the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, or World Drug Day, which is conducted on 26 June every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse, by supporting the Sports Festival. 

 

During June 2023, UNODC and partners will hold the peaceful procession “Children are our future. We stand for healthy Kyrgyzstan-free from drugs”; awareness-raising activities for vulnerable youth from an orphanage who will be invited to the canine centre, where dogs will demonstrate their ability in searching for drugs; organizing a half-marathon “One Run,” which will be conducted in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan; drug burning action and painting over the graffiti off walls of Bishkek city, which indicate where to buy drugs, and support the action “Don’t be silent. Speak out where they sell death (drugs)”. 

 

This year’s campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of treating people who use drugs with respect and empathy. People first: stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention is the theme of this year’s Day. 

 

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For more information, contact Vasilina Brazhko

Communication and PR Specialist

UNODC ROCA

+996775987817 WhatsApp and Cellphone

Vasilina.brazhko [at] un.org