✍️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
During National Civil Society Forum, Hamlaoui Emphasizes the Vital Role of Student Organizations in Combating the Drug Epidemic and Calls for Collective Action
Algiers, Algeria | April 30th, 2025 — Ibtissem Hamlaoui, President of the National Observatory for Civil Society, delivered a message to Algeria’s youth at the National Forum on the Role of Student Organizations in the Fight Against Drugs. She emphasized the central and indispensable role of student groups in the national effort to eradicate drug abuse and safeguard the future of the country.
In her speech, Hamlaoui acknowledged the critical importance of student organizations in the broader fight against drug trafficking and addiction. “Student organizations are the first line of defense in the social fabric, playing an essential, central, and effective role in this battle,” she stated, stressing that Algeria’s future relies on the innovative and continuous efforts of its young people to combat this growing epidemic.
The observatory president’s remarks were clear: “The State institutions need your support, your engagement, and your awareness,” she asserted, urging students to become active participants in national efforts. Additionally, she highlighted that the National Observatory for Civil Society is committed to supporting and implementing youth-driven initiatives, acting as a partner in advancing their plans.
Hamlaoui took the opportunity to discuss the broader context within which the drug issue must be understood, stressing that the current challenges facing Algeria—its geopolitical situation, its international position, and its internal challenges—cannot be separated from the drug issue. “The fight against drugs cannot be viewed in isolation from the country’s overall situation,” she explained.
Drawing attention to external threats, Hamlaoui also touched upon the ongoing information warfare waged against Algeria. She warned of “hostile campaigns of disinformation, historical falsification, and even distortion of facts on the ground,” primarily through social media and certain media outlets. “Algeria, strong and victorious, defending its just causes on the international stage, will not appease its enemies, who are attempting to undermine its sovereignty by all means, including illicit tactics,” she added.
Hamlaoui condemned the abuse of drugs, particularly psychotropic substances, as one of the most insidious weapons in this broader war—an attempt to destroy the nation’s true wealth: its youth. “The National People’s Army and all security forces are on high alert,” she reassured. “The results obtained at the borders and in inland areas in the fight against drugs are proof of the vigilance and determination of the Algerian state.”
The two-day event also showcased a comprehensive approach to combating drug abuse. A salon bringing together various stakeholders in the fight, including the police, gendarmerie, civil protection, Red Crescent, and health services, offered a platform for collaboration. Sessions also featured debates and workshops on important topics such as first aid, psychological support for drug addicts, and creating awareness-raising content.
