Revolutionizing Prison System for Drug-Addicted Inmates in Turkey

The Justice Ministry in Turkey has embarked on a groundbreaking project to establish specialized prisons with rehabilitation centers for drug-addicted inmates. Two cities, Bolu and Adana, have been chosen for this initiative.

With a focus on treating and rehabilitating convicts with substance abuse issues, the project aims to provide a comprehensive psychosocial service alongside psychiatric and pharmacological support from the Health Ministry. The goal is to address drug addiction as a medical condition that requires treatment, beyond its legal classification as a crime.

Statistics reveal that drug-related offenses account for 36% of crimes among the 340,268 detainees and convicts in Turkey. This prevalence is attributed to the country’s strict penal policies on drug offenses, contrasting with more lenient approaches in Western nations.

This initiative signifies a shift towards a more holistic and supportive approach to dealing with drug addiction within the prison system, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to address the complex issue of substance abuse.

drug addicts