The ECOWAS Parliament has joined forces with the Liberian Government to strengthen regional responses, in a bid to curb the growing menace of drug abuse and its devastating effects on public health and social stability.
During an engagement in Monrovia on Monday, both sides underscored the urgency of tackling drug trafficking, improving mental health support systems, and empowering youth through employment opportunities as key strategies to address the crisis.
According to a statement, the ECOWAS delegation met with officials from Liberia’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs; Health; Education; Gender, Children and Social Protection; and Youth and Sports, as well as the Mayor of Monrovia.
The meetings focused on deepening regional cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse, while also addressing mental health concerns tied to the crisis.
The statement noted that the discussions brought to light the escalating dangers of drug abuse in the region, with participants warning of its far-reaching consequences, including a surge in mental health issues, social disintegration, and economic stagnation, particularly among the youth population.
Describing the drug problem as a looming public health emergency, both the ECOWAS delegation and Liberian stakeholders expressed strong concern over the rising prevalence of substance abuse in urban communities and border areas.
They underscored the urgent need to dismantle transnational drug trafficking networks operating within and across West African borders.
The parties reaffirmed their commitment to a comprehensive, three-pronged approach to tackling the crisis, anchored on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
They stressed the importance of creating viable economic opportunities, especially for young people, to reduce their vulnerability to drug use and criminal exploitation.
“We must break the chain between youth unemployment and drug dependency. “Our young people need to see a future that is not tied to crime or addiction”, it noted.
According to the statement, the ECOWAS parliamentary mission’s visit to Liberia forms part of a broader regional strategy to foster collaboration among member states in addressing drug-related challenges and to promote policy reforms that support mental health care systems.
