Cannabis and Alcohol Use on the Rise in Southern Cyprus

Politis ran the headline: "Cannabis and Alcohol: The Companions of Youth… Cyprus’ Young People Don’t Stop at Just One Use", citing data presented by Dr. Christos Minas from the Greek Cypriot Addiction Management Authority during a recent session of the Health Committee in the Greek Cypriot Parliament.

According to the report, some individuals in the 19-25 age group consume narcotics on 20 out of 30 days. Over the past five years, cannabis use among adults has risen from 14% to 18%, with an increase also observed among students.

Minas emphasized that while cannabis remains the most widely used narcotic in Southern Cyprus, the consumption of stimulants and cocaine is also on the rise. He criticized the Greek Cypriot administration for spending €40 million on suppression and rehabilitation but failing to implement effective prevention measures. He revealed that of the 1,500 individuals referred for therapy in 2023, 65 were under the age of 18, adding, "No one knows the real number of children who need help."

Minas also pointed to concerns raised during a recent session of the Education Committee, where it was revealed that teachers are aware of students using or selling drugs but remain silent.

Additionally, he warned about the increasing prevalence of alcohol use among minors, particularly 13-14-year-olds, despite existing laws prohibiting alcohol sales to individuals under 18. However, these regulations are reportedly not enforced.

Furthermore, Minas disclosed that one in two inmates at the Central Prison in Southern Cyprus has either experimented with or regularly uses drugs.

In response, the Addiction Management Authority, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and the prison administration, is set to launch a drug rehabilitation program within the prison. The initiative, with a €400,000 budget, will involve 70-80 inmates participating in activities and therapy sessions from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, offering socio-psychological support and vocational guidance.

Meanwhile, Fileleftheros reported that three individuals, including a 20-year-old police officer recruited on January 27, 2025, were arrested on charges of drug possession, drug trafficking, and money laundering. They have been remanded in custody for eight days.