Security

Iraq expands drug rehabilitation efforts amid surge in addiction rates

Yasser Iskandar, a member of the Security and Defense Committee, highlighted that addiction treatment centers and programs are now active in every Iraqi province, providing essential services that have yielded promising outcomes.

A group of detainees in yellow jumpsuits sitting on the floor with their hands cuffed behind their backs. In front of them, bags of what appears to be seized drugs are displayed on a table. (Photo: INA)
A group of detainees in yellow jumpsuits sitting on the floor with their hands cuffed behind their backs. In front of them, bags of what appears to be seized drugs are displayed on a table. (Photo: INA)
Iraq Drugs Iraqi parliament's Security and Defense Committee Iraqi Ministry of Health

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In response to an alarming rise in drug addiction rates, Iraqi authorities are intensifying efforts to curb the crisis through an expansion of rehabilitation centers across the country. According to the Iraqi parliament's Security and Defense Committee, the number of individuals seeking help at drug rehabilitation centers has surged by 50% over the past four months.

Yasser Iskandar, a member of the Security and Defense Committee, highlighted that addiction treatment centers and programs are now active in every Iraqi province, providing essential services that have yielded promising outcomes. Iskandar noted a 20% increase in voluntary participation, underscoring the role of families and communities in encouraging individuals to seek treatment and rebuild their lives.

“Treatment programs across Iraq’s provinces are making a difference, with families and communities supporting addicts as they pursue healthier lifestyles,” Iskandar said. He added that the expanding network of centers reflects the government’s commitment to addressing drug abuse as a public health issue.

The Iraqi Ministry of Health is also playing a central role in expanding treatment facilities, with spokesperson Saif Badr confirming the establishment of at least one rehabilitation center in each province and several in Baghdad. “We treat addiction as a health issue, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment,” Badr stated.

Despite these measures, the Iraqi Interior Ministry continues to report thousands of arrests related to drug use and trafficking each year, as drug use has become a growing concern nationwide. With new rehabilitation centers opening in Baghdad and other provinces, officials hope to reduce the number of drug addicts and shift society’s view toward addiction as a treatable condition rather than a criminal offense.