The World Health Organization (WHO) is hosting the fourth Forum
on Alcohol, Drugs and Addictive Behaviours from 27-30 June in Geneva,
Switzerland.
During the event, delegates from around 50 countries will
discuss and share knowledge and strategies on enhancing international
collaboration among key stakeholders to prevent and reduce the burden caused by
substance use and addictive behaviours with a focus on gambling and gaming.
The Forum will also discuss progress on the implementation of
international commitments including those outlined in the Global Alcohol Action Plan (2022-2030), which was
approved by the World Health Assembly in 2022.
“As the world emerged out of the COVID-19
pandemic, which significantly impacted our lives and public health priorities,
the importance of strong international collaboration to address substance use and
addictive behaviours as important determinants of mental health and well-being
has become even more evident,” said Dr Jérôme Salomon, WHO Assistant
Director-General for Universal Health Coverage, Communicable and Noncommunicable
Diseases.
“Given the scope and magnitude of public health problems related
to alcohol, drugs and addictive behaviours, the Forum provides a vital platform
for WHO and its partners to strengthen partnerships and accelerate our progress
towards tackling these issues, which profoundly affect the health and wellbeing
of our societies” said Dr Dévora Kestel, Director,
Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization.
During the meeting, delegates from civil society, academia,
healthcare, intergovernmental organizations and member states, will discuss a
range of issues including progress towards the achievement of SDG health target
3.5 on strengthening prevention and treatment of substance abuse and the commercial
determinants of substance use and addictive behaviours.
The Forum will also feature presentations by people with lived
experience of substance use disorders and addictive behaviours.