EUKN - European Urban Knowledge Network - EU wants city network to fight drugs and addiction

EU wants city network to fight drugs and addiction

07-09-2006

Representatives of EU countries, applicant countries, Norway, Russia, Ukraine and Belarus held a two-day conference in Turku on 6-7 September 2006. Different forms of cooperation to cut the harm caused by drugs are being presented. Finland has organised the conference in cooperation with the EU Commission and the Council of Europe.

In addition to border control and stopping organised crime, targeted measures directed at drug users are needed. The Turku conference is seeking to develop cooperation in working groups, which are dealing with issues of fieldwork, low threshold services, treatment guidance, and the prevention of infectious diseases related to intravenous drug abuse.

An aim of the conference was to create a network of European cities. The network will be used to exchange experiences gained in different countries in carrying out projects. Through cooperation a joint step can be taken towards a safer and more humane Europe.

Police, social and health work traditionally emphasise different approaches to drug issues. In order to achieve results, these authorities need to act jointly and to have a common outlook. The prevention of drug-related harm can be more effectively improved by increasing the interaction of social, police, training and organisations. The responsibility of the public and families in preventing drug problems is decisive.

For more information contact any of the following contacts at the Finnish Ministry of Social Affairs and Health:

Ministerial Adviser
Tapani Sarvanti, cell +38 (0)50 5535534

Project Coordinator
Toivo Hurme, cell +38 (0)50 5245 7966

Ministerial Counsellor on Health/Medical Affairs
Merja Saarinen, cell +38 (0)50 5634 796

Source: Finland´s EU Presidency 2006

Links
For more information, please visit the Conference webpage

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