"Fighting drug abuse is a national and moral duty", says PM Masrour Barzani
"We are working through all possible means to limit the spread of this threat that weakens our youth and human resources," he said.

Nov. 26, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani emphasized on Tuesday that confronting drug abuse is "a national and moral duty that falls upon all of us," during the foundation stone laying ceremony for a new drug awareness and rehabilitation center in Erbil.
"This center is a crucial project," Barzani stated, expressing gratitude to the Barzani Charity Foundation and LDC organization for their collaboration. He particularly acknowledged Latter-day Saint (LDS) Charities' decade-long support of the Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF) and hoped for continued cooperation.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the KRG places significant importance on combating drug abuse, implementing a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to address its serious social, health, economic, and security threats.
Drug trafficking has become a regional threat in recent years, harming families and society.
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) November 26, 2024
We must disrupt networks, hold perpetrators accountable, and support victims in their recovery.
This new rehabilitation center in Erbil will provide care to 80 patients. pic.twitter.com/tfTMha2X1H
"We are working through all possible means to limit the spread of this threat that weakens our youth and human resources," he said.
Barzani revealed that the KRG has established a High Committee for Drug Control, involving various ministries and relevant institutions, and created a fund for drug awareness, rehabilitation, and treatment.
"This center is part of our efforts to help addicts rehabilitate and return to normal life," he explained, adding that the project falls within broader efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and its consequences.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need to distinguish between criminal drug traffickers, who should face severe punishment, and victims of addiction. He expressed deep concern about the increasing frequency of drug-related arrests, noting, "We feel profound sadness when we observe this becoming a daily occurrence."
Recent statistics from the Sulaimani Human Rights Office reveal that 687 individuals were arrested in the first ten months of 2024, including 360 drug dealers. The office's head, Saber Abdullah, indicated that while 327 users and addicts were recorded, "the actual number is likely much higher."
Hezhar Baban, director of the Aran Organization, expressed concern about drug manufacturing facilities in the region, particularly noting a facility in Darbandikhan, Sulaimani province.
The Kurdistan Region has intensified its efforts to combat drug abuse through a dual approach of law enforcement and healthcare initiatives. The region's existing addiction treatment centers provide comprehensive services including detoxification, behavioral therapy, psychological counseling, and rehabilitation programs.
The KRG's strategy combines strict measures against traffickers with supportive policies for those seeking treatment, aiming to reduce drug proliferation while encouraging addicts to seek help without fear of punishment. The new center represents a significant step in expanding these services and addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse in the region.