New anti-drug law marks a turning point in Kuwait’s fight against narcotics: Experts
Experts and officials have affirmed that Kuwait’s newly approved anti-drug law represents a qualitative leap in addressing drug-related issues, as it combines deterrent legislative measures with treatment and rehabilitation, contributing to the protection of individuals and families and enhancing overall community safety.
This came during an awareness seminar titled “Positive Developments After the Approval of the New Anti-Drug Law,” organized by the Kuwaiti Association Against Violence on Wednesday evening.
Head of the Awareness Department at the General Administration for Drug Control, Major Abdulaziz Al-Lanqawi, stressed that the drug problem should not be viewed solely as a security issue, but rather as a psychological, health and social challenge that requires coordinated efforts at the local, regional and international levels, reports Al-Rai daily..
Al-Lanqawi explained that there are various types of narcotics and psychotropic substances, and that the new law has addressed this diversity comprehensively.
One of the most significant amendments, he said, is the unification of penalties for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, meaning that smugglers and traffickers of both categories are now subject to the same penalties.
He added that the law also includes substantially increased financial fines, reinforcing its deterrent impact.
Al-Lanqawi highlighted that a major strength of the new law is the expansion of treatment and rehabilitation opportunities. Under the previous law, only relatives up to the second degree were allowed to file a complaint on behalf of a family member using narcotics.
“Many families suffer in silence because one of their children is using these poisons,” he said. “Thankfully, the new law has expanded treatment options, allowing relatives up to the third degree to file a complaint against an addicted or drug-using family member, which helps in early intervention and recovery.”
He concluded by emphasizing that the law strikes a balance between punishment and treatment, reflecting a comprehensive national approach to combating drugs and safeguarding society.
