Experts note that strengthening teenagers' confidence in saying 'no' to drugs requires more than just informational campaigns and law enforcement; it necessitates a strong alliance between families, educational institutions, the wider community, as well as specialists and officials.
Although government prevention efforts have helped raise awareness about the dangers of drugs, specialists warn that peer pressure remains one of the most significant risk factors prompting youth to experiment with narcotics. Often, this decision becomes the first step toward addiction.
Recent studies show that adolescents and young adults fall into the group most vulnerable to substance abuse. Factors such as insufficient parenting skills, emotional neglect, family conflicts, limited life skills, and negative peer influence significantly increase the likelihood of drug use.
Recognizing the need for a societal response, the National Drug Control Authority, in collaboration with the UAE government's Media Office, has launched the National Anti-Drug Campaign under the slogan 'United to Eradicate the Threat.' This initiative supports the UAE's broader strategy to protect youth by strengthening families, promoting positive values, and equipping teenagers with the confidence and decision-making skills necessary to reject harmful influences.
As part of the campaign, authorities are conducting educational programs through summer events, community councils, and initiatives aimed at developing emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and resilience. The programs also encourage volunteering, productive use of free time, and raising awareness about the long-term consequences of drug addiction.
Officials emphasize that refusing drugs should be seen as a sign of strength and self-esteem, not weakness. They stress that true friendship is built on mutual respect and support, not on pressure to engage in risky behavior.
The campaign also includes meetings of National Community Councils on Drug Prevention, which bring together relevant bodies to enhance social prevention measures. Discussions focus on the importance of Emirati values, faith, parental example, and open communication in creating a supportive home environment where young people feel comfortable discussing problems without fear of criticism.
Experts point out that adolescence is a particularly vulnerable period, as many young people seek independence, acceptance, and belonging. The fear of rejection or exclusion can prompt some to engage in behaviors they would otherwise avoid, including smoking, truancy, or drug experimentation.
To mitigate these risks, parents are advised to maintain open and trusting relationships with their children while discreetly monitoring their friendships and online activities. Instead of relying on strict control or confrontation, specialists recommend using dialogue, guidance, and allowing teenagers to make responsible decisions that build their confidence and personal values.
Involving youth in sports, hobbies, volunteering, and other positive activities can also reduce their susceptibility to negative influences by helping them develop a stronger sense of purpose and belonging. Furthermore, experts recommend teaching teenagers practical refusal techniques they can use in stressful situations. These include confidently saying 'no,' suggesting an alternative activity, using family rules as a reason for refusal, or repeating a firm refusal without entering into lengthy arguments. A calm, confident posture and composure are equally important in cementing these decisions.
Officials conclude that the main message is simple: true friends respect personal boundaries and never pressure others into engaging in harmful behavior. Empowering teenagers with strong values, resilience, and the confidence to refuse drugs remains one of the most effective ways to protect future generations from addiction.
