At the “A Community Without Addiction” conference, acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti stated that a community free from addiction is a national mission. He emphasized that they cannot accept addiction becoming the bitter reality on the streets, in schools, or within families in Kosovo.
“We are gathered today for a joint battle—a battle for life, dignity, and the future of our children. A community without addiction is a national mission that calls on all of us without exception. We are here together because together we are committed to a society where every child and every young person has the opportunity to live with dignity and hope,” said the acting head of government at the conference organized by the Office for Good Governance in partnership with the Coalition of NGOs for Child Protection, Trust Circle Foundation, and Labyrinth.
Kurti added that the Kosovo government recognizes that the fight against addiction requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach, beginning with prevention, continuing with education and awareness, offering psychosocial and health support to reduce harm for users, and ensuring dignified rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
“We are committed to implementing the 2024-2028 State Strategy Against Drugs as a priority for protecting public health. Through this strategy, we have defined clear measures combining the fight against drug distribution networks with strengthening educational mechanisms, especially for school-aged youth, while focusing on prevention and rehabilitation. We are empowering the police in combating drug distribution while investing in training centers and rehabilitation programs for our youth,” the acting Prime Minister further declared.
Kurti stressed that they cannot accept addiction as a harsh reality.
“We cannot accept addiction becoming the bitter reality of our streets, schools, or families. This is a battle we can only win together—institutions, police, municipalities, civil society, media, schools, parents, and the youth themselves. Today we call for a united and unwavering front against addiction. Only an aware, engaged, and active community can create a future free from addiction,” Kurti stated.
Meanwhile, Remzije Krasniqi, Chairwoman of the Board of KOMF, highlighted that in recent years, children and youth who use drugs are among the three most vulnerable categories.
“Unfortunately, this category of children often remains in the shadows due to a complete lack of access to social, health, and rehabilitation services, as well as stigma and prejudice in society,” she said.
