The age at which children come into contact with psychoactive substances is alarmingly decreasing in the Republic of Moldova, authorities signaling that the onset of consumption is already around the age of 12-13 years. The phenomenon has also reached schools, and access to certain substances is facilitated by the internet and social networks. The situation was discussed during public hearings organized by the Parliamentary Commission for Human Rights and Interethnic Relations, reports IPN.
During the hearings, participants emphasized that the state does not have an updated national strategy in the field of drugs. The chairman of the commission, Grigore Novac, warned that drug trafficking and consumption pose a serious threat to public health and national security, and called for the urgent development of a strategy for 2026-2032, based on research and effective solutions.
“The actual number of people suffering from substance-related disorders and behavioral addictions is unknown, as, to date, no national study has been conducted,” stated Grigore Novac.
The Dean of the Faculty of Psychology and Special Psychopedagogy at the “Ion Creanga” University, Maria Virlan, emphasized that there is no strict classification of substances causing addiction. She also mentioned that often addictions appear combined, such as tobacco associated with alcohol or other substances.
During the hearings, it was pointed out that punishing consumers does not solve the problem of addiction. Thus, it was proposed to revise the legislation so that possession of small amounts of drugs for personal use would no longer be criminally prosecuted, and consumers would be directed towards treatment and psychological support, while the police would focus on combating trafficking networks.
It has also been noted the lack of addiction specialists and rehabilitation centers, especially for minors. Representatives of the Ministry of Health affirm that the new strategy will include the expansion of risk reduction programs and access to substitution treatment in all regions of the country, including prisons.
The conclusions of the hearings will form the basis of the future national anti-drug strategy, which will include prevention, treatment and reintegration measures, aimed at reducing consumption and protecting the health of young people.
