In collaboration with the President Jalal Talabani Foundation, the University of Sulaimani has conducted an in-depth study on the causes and effects of drug addiction among detainees accused of substance abuse.
On November 28, 2024, the findings were presented during a seminar held at the College of Engineering’s seminar hall. The event was attended by Professor Dr. Kosar Mohamed Ali, alongside government and party officials, college deans, university instructors, and staff.
Prof. Dr. Karim Sharif Qarachatani, a professor at the University of Sulaimani and the seminar organizer, shared key insights from the study. Speaking to the University Website, he explained:
“The primary reason behind drug addiction for many individuals is the influence of bad companions. Most started with smoking, progressed to marijuana, and eventually to crystal meth.”
Dr. Qarachatani highlighted the study’s findings on the societal impact, stating that addiction often leads to family breakdowns, with many cases of separation and divorce being reported. Despite multiple arrests, the detainees were found to relapse upon release, underscoring the ineffectiveness of imprisonment as a deterrent.
He called for the implementation of the anti-drug law passed by the Kurdistan Parliament, which mandates the establishment of mental health facilities for treatment. “These individuals require hospital stays to detoxify their bodies and address their addiction effectively,” he emphasized.
The research surveyed 100 men and women arrested on charges of drug addiction. Data was collected through detailed questionnaires with over 50 questions, which were filled out by detainees and their families. Participants included individuals held in General Security, Kani Goma, adult correctional facilities, and women’s correctional facilities.
This study sheds light on the urgent need for comprehensive treatment strategies to combat drug addiction and its ripple effects on society.