The report also emphasizes the need to get more information about the nature of addiction, as Finland is still one of the leading countries in Europe in terms of the number of young people who die from drug use.
Acting Director of A-Clinic Foundation managing director, Hanna Paikkala, emphasizes that drug addiction is a disease that cannot be cured by judgment but by support. Paikkala states that many consider drug addiction to be a criminal problem, and this perception must change. He also points out that drug users are not second-class citizens, but solutions to the problem must focus on protecting human life and building a more humane society.
The survey also shows that 45% of respondents support the establishment of controlled drug use rooms and 40% are ready for a drug use room in their hometown. The high percentage of supporters suggests that Finns are increasingly aware that drug abuse is a problem that can also affect their local communities.
Paikkala also emphasizes that the stigmatization of drug addiction must be tackled, as it creates obstacles to seeking support and treatment. He demands the decriminalization of drug use, so that more drug users could seek the necessary help.
In addition, the research results indicate that drug attitudes in Finland have been highly politicized, and voters for right-wing and left-wing parties are clearly divided. This finding is particularly important as the country prepares for its upcoming parliamentary elections.
In summary, it can be stated that the study reveals conflicting attitudes towards drug users in Finland and emphasizes the need for more information about addiction. The high percentage of supporters of supervised drug use rooms in the country shows that more and more people are aware of the need to address the problem of drug addiction. Decriminalizing drug use and removing the stigma associated with drug addiction are essential steps towards building a more humane society.
HT
Source: The Nordic Page