DHAKA : 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 today.

The youth march began at 8:00 a.m. from the Star Gate of Ramna Park (in front of the Matsya Bhaban Gate) and concluded at the gate of Curzon Hall, University of Dhaka, passing through Osman Gani Road. More than one hundred young people participated in the event. Participants carried placards and wore campaign T-shirts and caps displaying messages promoting a drug-free society, protecting young people from the risks of substance use, and expanding evidence-based drug prevention initiatives.

During the youth march, participants called for increased public awareness about the harmful effects of drugs and emphasized the importance of ensuring a healthy and safe future for young people. They highlighted the need for coordinated efforts among families, educational institutions, communities, and the government in preventing drug use.

In addition, the ISSUP Bangladesh Chapter participated in the national anti-drug rally and human chain organized by the government. Approximately 200 professionals, healthcare providers, youth representatives, and people from various sectors took part in these activities.

Following the youth march, youth representatives participated in a discussion meeting organized by the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, held at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka. Speakers at the event underscored the importance of scientific and evidence-based drug prevention programmes and identified youth engagement as one of the key driving forces for building a drug-free society.

To raise public awareness on drug prevention, ISSUP Bangladesh Chapter and Dhaka Ahsania Mission prepared and distributed various information, education, and communication (IEC) materials, including T-shirts, caps, and educational leaflets marking the observance of the day.

The organizers expressed hope that such initiatives would enhance anti-drug awareness among young people and play a significant role in building a healthy, safe, and drug-free Bangladesh.