Al-Mustaqbal University in Babylon Governorate hosted an awareness conference to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse, bringing together representatives of the local government, security agencies, educational institutions, tribal leaders, and community figures. The event aimed to reinforce public awareness and curb the spread of drug abuse among young people. The university’s hosting of the conference reflects its vision of strengthening the role of academic institutions as active partners in addressing societal challenges and reaffirms its national commitment to protecting future generations from the dangers and consequences of drug abuse. The conference featured discussions on a range of proposals and measures designed to combat drug abuse and trafficking, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts among families, schools, universities, government institutions, and security agencies in confronting this growing challenge. Professor Hassan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, stated that the university’s mission extends beyond education and academic excellence to contributing to the development of a safe, informed, and responsible society. He stressed that combating drug abuse requires genuine cooperation among families, educational institutions, security authorities, the media, and all sectors of society. He also noted that the university places intellectual and behavioral awareness among young people at the forefront of its priorities and continues to support initiatives and programs that protect students and the wider community from the risks associated with drugs. Brigadier General Haider Hassoun, Director of the Babylon Directorate for Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances, explained that the conference forms part of ongoing efforts to raise public awareness of the dangers of drug abuse and its harmful effects on individuals, families, and society. Meanwhile, Investigator Issa Safwan from the Investigations Department of the Directorate for Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances stated that most recorded crimes are directly or indirectly linked to drug abuse. He noted that investigations have identified negative peer influence and weak parental supervision as major factors contributing to youth involvement in substance abuse. Safwan also explained that Article 40 of the Iraqi Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law provides an opportunity for individuals seeking treatment, exempting those who voluntarily report their addiction and request treatment from legal prosecution. For his part, Babylon Governor Ali Turki described drugs as “more dangerous than terrorism,” emphasizing that combating this threat is a shared responsibility that begins within the family and extends across all state institutions and society. He added that drug abuse leads to family disintegration, social deviance, and criminal activity, calling for unified efforts by security, health, educational, and community institutions to confront the phenomenon. Similarly, Babylon Provincial Council Chairman Asaad Al-Musallamawi called for the development of a comprehensive strategy to combat drug abuse, stressing that the problem affects all segments of society, not only young people. He highlighted the importance of expanding awareness programs in schools, universities, and government institutions. He also praised the significant efforts of the Directorate for Combating Narcotics in pursuing those involved in drug trafficking and abuse despite limited resources, reaffirming the local government’s full support for the relevant authorities. The conference underscored the importance of collaboration among governmental, community, and academic institutions in creating a safe environment resilient to the threat of drugs, while promoting awareness and prevention as the first line of defense in protecting society. The event also featured a dedicated awareness exhibition showcasing educational materials, informational brochures, and guidance posters highlighting the dangers of drug abuse, methods of prevention, and the efforts of security and health authorities in combating this issue, as well as available treatment and rehabilitation services. The exhibition aimed to strengthen public awareness among students and attendees alike.