A roundtable was held in Pristina on June 26, 2026, on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, attended by the Acting President of the Republic of Kosovo, Albulena Haxhiu, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Genc Metaj, as well as many other stakeholders in this field.
In his opening remarks, MIA Secretary General Genc Metaj said that this day marks an important moment for reflection on the challenges that drugs and their illicit trafficking continue to pose to public safety, citizens’ health, and the well-being of our society.
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According to him, the consequences of this phenomenon affect our families, young people, and communities, which is why a coordinated, comprehensive, and long-term response is required from all relevant institutions and stakeholders.
Metaj stressed that the Republic of Kosovo has already laid the foundations for a clear and structured approach through the State Anti-Drug Strategy 2024–2028. He said that this strategic document demonstrates the commitment of the institutions of the Republic of Kosovo to effectively address the drug phenomenon and create a safer and healthier environment for all citizens.
“Our vision is clear: to reduce the presence and use of drugs, minimize their social, health, and security consequences, and strengthen society’s resilience against this phenomenon,” Metaj stressed.
He also underlined that the Ministry of Internal Affairs remains committed to coordinating and supporting the implementation of these policies. However, according to him, the fight against drugs is not only the responsibility of institutions, because it begins in the family, continues at school, and is reinforced in the community.
“Only through the joint commitment of institutions, civil society, the education system, the health sector, and citizens themselves can we build a safer society that is more resilient against this phenomenon,” said Metaj.
Concluding his remarks, Metaj said that this day should serve to reaffirm the shared commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of our citizens. He added that by acting together with responsibility and professionalism, more opportunities can be created for our young people and a safer, healthier future, far from the influence of drugs.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs remains one of the key actors in shaping policy directions and the strategic approach to combating this phenomenon. Awareness-raising activities will be held throughout this month with the aim of reducing the number of drug users.
