Drug and substance abuse has emerged as a growing social concern in Bhutan, particularly among youth in urban areas. The government has responded with awareness campaigns, rehabilitation services, and legal measures under the Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Substance Abuse Act.
Overview
Drug and substance abuse[3] has emerged as one of Bhutan's most pressing social challenges, particularly among unemployed youth in Thimphu and other urban areas. Cannabis, which grows wild across Bhutan, pharmaceutical drugs, and increasingly synthetic substances pose growing public health concerns.
Legal Framework
The Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Substance Abuse Act provides the legal framework for drug control. Penalties range from fines to imprisonment, though the government's approach emphasizes treatment and rehabilitation alongside enforcement.[4]
Government Response
- Drop-in centers and rehabilitation facilities in major towns
- School-based awareness and prevention programs
- Mental health services integration with substance abuse treatment
- Community-based prevention through youth programs and sports
References
- "Bhutan: Safeguarding youth from the perils of drug use." UNODC South Asia, May 2012.
- "Government intensifies battle against drug cases." Kuensel Online.
- "Addicted in Bhutan." Foreign Policy, September 2019.
- "Prevention of Illegal Substance Use in Bhutan." Cambridge Handbook of International Prevention Science.
Test Your Knowledge
Think you know about this topic? Try a quick quiz!
Help improve this article
Do you have personal knowledge about this topic? Were you there? Your experience matters. BhutanWiki is built by the community, for the community.
Anonymous contributions welcome. No account required.