Centre for Civic Education (CCE) recently submitted an initiative to Police Directorate to process cases of psychoactive substance sales in close proximity to educational institutions, which were recorded by CCE activists in the form of promotional materials with QR codes, catalogues, and contact details for purchasing these substances.
The CCE emphasizes that such promotional materials near schools pose a serious risk, potentially leading students to become victims of illegal drug trafficking. This is particularly concerning given that young people, according to relevant research, represent a highly vulnerable group when it comes to exposure to psychoactive substances.
The CCE expresses deep concern about the increased availability of these substances to young people and their impact on the health and safety of students. The placement of such promotional materials indicates that drug dealers have become bold enough to openly violate legal regulations in this way or have protection in the institutions for such illegal activity.
The distribution of psychoactive substances among young people can have catastrophic consequences on their health, education and social life, which means that the suppression of such activities must be a priority for all social actors.
The CCE believes that it is crucial for the competent institutions to take all necessary measures to prevent the spread and sale of these dangerous substances, especially in environments that are supposed to be safe for children and young people. Therefore, we urge decision-makers and competent authorities to urgently investigate such cases and take all necessary actions to identify and sanction those responsible, but also citizens to react and report to the competent authorities if they notice them, in order to contribute to a healthier environment for young people through joint action.
Marlena Ivanović, Programme Associate