The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has selected Egypt as the first country globally to implement the "CHAMPS" initiative, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at strengthening prevention systems for children up to the age of 18. This decision not only highlights Egypt's key role in this critical area but also underscores the nation's commitment to fulfilling its international responsibilities in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The "CHAMPS" initiative focuses on bolstering children's resilience from birth through adolescence, working to protect them from drug use and mitigating the various risk factors they may face during different stages of development. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity and Chairperson of the Fund for Combating and Treating Addiction and Substance Abuse, delivered a recorded speech at the 68th session of the International Narcotics Control Board, being held at the United Nations Office in Vienna. Morsy emphasized the critical importance of this gathering, which represents a unified effort to safeguard the future of children in a safe and healthy environment. She described the "CHAMPS" initiative as a "preventive beacon," highlighting its innovative, evidence-based approach to protecting children and adolescents, and offering a brighter, healthier future. Minister Morsy further highlighted the significance of Egypt becoming the first nation to officially join the "CHAMPS" initiative under UN auspices in October 2024. The announcement, made in the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister for Human Development, the Minister of Health and Population, the UN Under-Secretary-General, and the Minister of Social Solidarity, exemplifies Egypt's strong political commitment to the goals of this global initiative. In alignment with Egypt's international and humanitarian responsibilities in combating drug abuse, Morsy outlined the National Strategy for Drug Control (2024–2028), a comprehensive initiative launched under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi. The strategy aims to foster a healthier society by equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to face the challenges of drug use, particularly among vulnerable populations. Egypt's approach extends beyond prevention and into a broader framework that addresses and mitigates the social and health consequences of drug abuse, including violence and crime. The initiative is being carried out in collaboration with government entities, civil society organizations, and international partners. Minister Morsy also announced that preparations are underway to implement the "CHAMPS" initiative in newly developed residential areas ("slum replacement communities") in Greater Cairo, marking a pilot intervention within Egypt's comprehensive urban development strategy. Through this initiative, Egypt is investing in human capital to ensure these communities' long-term sustainability and the prosperity of their children. Since September 2020, the Fund for Combating and Treating Addiction and Substance Abuse has been working on drug prevention programs in these new residential areas, in line with the directives of President Al-Sisi. Through the "CHAMPS" initiative, Egypt will continue to enhance its national prevention efforts with the active involvement of all relevant stakeholders. Morsy reaffirmed Egypt's ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive, free treatment services for all individuals affected by substance use disorders, in full adherence to international standards.
