Report: Shabana Ayaz
Ankara, November 19,2025: The Turkish capital Ankara recently hosted a comprehensive workshop titled “Bağımlılıkla Mücadele Çalıştayı” addressing the escalating risks of addiction. The event took place at the historic Ulucanlar Cezaevi Museum, bringing together government officials, health experts, university rectors, civil society organizations, volunteer groups, and journalists in a collaborative forum.
The workshop aimed not only to review preventive policies and treatment strategies but also to explore practical measures for raising social awareness and fostering community involvement. The discussions and reports generated during the day are expected to guide future national strategies on combating addiction.
Dr. Ayhan Özkan, Chair of the Bağımlılıkla Mücadele Platformu, shared his personal and professional journey, noting that his work against addiction began in 2021 during his governorship. A close acquaintance’s struggle with addiction transformed this mission into what he described as “a duty given by God.” Dr. Özkan emphasized۔
“Turkiye is no longer just a transit route; the risk of becoming a marketplace for addiction is real. Therefore, the entire society—not just the state—has a role to play. Each of us, whether as parents, educators, or public officials, bears responsibility in this fight.”
He further highlighted that personal stories and community engagement are crucial, stressing that societal participation strengthens the fight against addiction.
Professor Dr. Necdet Ünüvar, Rector of Ankara University, pointed out that addiction is “an issue that will remain on our agenda indefinitely.” He noted that the younger generation is increasingly exposed to pressures of modern life and social media, often seeking dopamine through illegal means. Despite these challenges, he emphasized optimism, citing that Turkiye’s current percentage of drug users is lower than the global average.
Dr. Mustafa Uzun, member of the Presidential Health Policy Board, highlighted the importance of comprehensive cooperation from civil society to government authorities. He stated that only 17% of addicted individuals access treatment, while 83% remain in society. He emphasized that voluntary organizations and local authorities play a key role in encouraging addicts to seek help۔
“This is a non-political, societal issue. We must drain the swamp and approach this fight collectively.”
Nur Delice’s Prominent Role — Strengthening Academic and Social Impact.
Among the workshop participants, international journalist, author, and representative of the Dünya Muhabirler Birliği, Ms. Nur Delice, stood out for her active engagement. She participated as both observer and contributor in the 10-member “Addiction Table”, sharing field experiences, journalistic insights, and perspectives on international best practices.
Nur Delice commented۔ “This workshop was more than a discussion forum; it was a platform to collectively understand addiction through scientific, social, and human perspectives. Community involvement is the strongest element in this struggle.”
Her participation enhanced the workshop’s academic, journalistic, and social dimensions, providing valuable insight for policy-making and practical strategies.
Other Participants and Recommendations
Various groups at the workshop developed recommendations on key topics including:
- Social awareness and education
- Youth guidance and rehabilitation
- Parental training and support
- Social media management
- Modern treatment and recovery models
- Volunteer engagement
Dr. Burcu Bostancıoğlu and other civil society representatives provided actionable examples and suggestions that were highly appreciated by participants.
Individuals contributing significantly to awareness, research, and volunteer services in the field of addiction were recognized with Honor, Service, and Motivation Awards, encouraging continued societal engagement.
The workshop concluded with presentation of recommendations, distribution of certificates, and a guided visit to the historic Ulucanlar Cezaevi Museum. Participants agreed that this event marks a new phase in Turkiye’s coordinated national effort to combat addiction, combining state, civil society, media, and community action.
The program in Ankara demonstrates Turkiye’s commitment to addressing addiction through education, awareness, health initiatives, and social cooperation. The slogan “Drain the Swamp” has evolved from a rallying cry into a symbol of national determination۔
