Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Claire Yuan
Committee: World Health Organization
Topic: Substance Abuse
Country: Indonesia
School: Portage Central High School
Substance abuse is a growing global health crisis that affects millions of people and their communities. Addiction creates serious problems like mental health issues, economic challenges, and overburdened healthcare systems. These effects are often felt most by those in marginalized groups or areas with limited resources. The Republic of Indonesia is determined to fight substance abuse through public education and international cooperation to create impactful solutions.
Indonesia recognizes the wide-ranging effects of substance abuse on public health and social stability. According to the National Narcotics Board of Indonesia (BNN), the country recorded over 4.8 million individuals suffering from drug addiction in 2023, with many cases linked to methamphetamine use. To address this issue, Indonesia has implemented extensive rehabilitation programs, such as the Rehabilitation Village Program, which provides treatment and reintegration support for individuals struggling with addiction. These programs are especially critical in rural areas, where access to healthcare services remains limited.
Education plays a key role in Indonesia’s strategy to combat substance abuse. National awareness campaigns, such as the annual Anti-Narcotics Day, have reached millions through schools, workplaces, and social media platforms. These initiatives focus on educating young people about the dangers of drug use and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. A 2022 campaign led by BNN successfully reduced drug usage rates among students in Jakarta by 15%, demonstrating the impact of targeted education efforts.
International collaboration is essential to tackling the transnational drug trade, which fuels substance abuse across the globe. Indonesia has strengthened partnerships with organizations such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to disrupt drug trafficking networks. In 2021, Indonesian authorities worked with regional allies to intercept over 2.5 tons of methamphetamine bound for Southeast Asia, one of the largest seizures in the nation’s history. These efforts illustrate Indonesia’s commitment to international cooperation and its leadership in regional anti-drug initiatives.
The Republic of Indonesia also emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of substance abuse, including poverty and lack of economic opportunity. By investing in community development programs, Indonesia seeks to provide alternatives to drug-related activities. For example, job training initiatives in high-risk areas have successfully reduced drug dependency by offering individuals stable sources of income and purpose. These efforts align with Indonesia’s broader commitment to sustainable development and social welfare.
Indonesia calls on all member states to take a multifaceted approach to the global substance abuse crisis by prioritizing education, rehabilitation, and international cooperation. Stronger cross-border partnerships, increased investment in prevention programs, and the promotion of economic opportunities in vulnerable communities are essential for creating lasting solutions. With collective action, the world can reduce the devastating impact of substance abuse and create healthier, more resilient societies.
