On the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026, the Bangladesh Chapter of the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP), in collaboration with Dhaka Ahsania Mission (DAM), organized a colorful youth march and awareness campaign in Dhaka on Friday.
The youth march began at 8am from the Star Gate of Ramna Park, opposite Matsya Bhaban, and concluded at the gate of Curzon Hall of the University of Dhaka, passing through Osman Gani Road.
More than 100 young people participated in the event, carrying placards and wearing campaign T-shirts and caps bearing messages promoting a drug-free society, protecting young people from the risks of substance use, and expanding evidence-based drug prevention initiatives.
During the march, participants called for greater public awareness of the harmful effects of drugs and stressed the importance of ensuring a healthy and safe future for young people. They also emphasized the need for coordinated efforts by families, educational institutions, communities, and the government to prevent drug use.
The ISSUP Bangladesh Chapter also joined the national anti-drug rally and human chain organized by the government. Around 200 professionals, healthcare providers, youth representatives, and people from various sectors participated in the day's activities.
Following the march, youth representatives attended a discussion organized by the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) under the Ministry of Home Affairs at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka.
Speakers at the event underscored the importance of scientific, evidence-based drug prevention programs and identified youth engagement as a key driver in building a drug-free society.
To mark the day, the ISSUP Bangladesh Chapter and Dhaka Ahsania Mission also prepared and distributed information, education, and communication (IEC) materials, including T-shirts, caps, and educational leaflets, to raise public awareness about drug prevention.
The organizers expressed hope that such initiatives would strengthen anti-drug awareness among young people and contribute to building a healthy, safe, and drug-free Bangladesh.