The conference “Let’s Overcome Addiction Together,” held on November 5, 2024, at the Palace of Serbia, marked Addiction Awareness Month by gathering numerous experts and partners in health and social sciences. Organized by the Government of the Republic of Serbia’s Office for Combating Drugs, in collaboration with the socially responsible company Nelt Group, the event highlighted Serbia’s ongoing efforts in addiction prevention and treatment.
The conference was opened by Mr. Milan Pekić, Director of the Office for Combating Drugs, and Ms. Svetlana Pozega, representative of the Nicorette brand. In their opening remarks, they emphasized the importance of joint efforts by government institutions, healthcare providers, the civil sector, and the private sector in addressing addiction issues.
During the panel discussions, current challenges and solutions in addiction treatment were presented:
• Dr. Diana Raketić, M.D., from the Special Hospital for Addiction Treatment, shared new treatment outcomes and introduced modern methods and tools to improve healthcare services.
• Ms. Branislava Cincarević from the Office for Combating Drugs addressed the social challenges of combating drug abuse and stressed the need for comprehensive support.
• Dr. Marija Vukoja, M.D., Assistant Professor at the Institute for Lung Diseases of Vojvodina, spoke on nicotine addiction, its consequences, and the importance of treatment for improving quality of life.
• Katarina Jonev Ćiraković, cybersecurity expert, highlighted addiction issues in the digital environment, particularly internet addiction among parents and children.
• Mr. Nebojša Đurasović from the Association “Prevent” delivered a presentation titled “Gambling is Not a Toy,” discussing the consequences of gambling and the importance of education in preventing this form of addiction, as well as presenting the association’s work to date.
• Dr. Goran Vukomanović from the University Children’s Hospital discussed the impact of addiction on children’s overall health and the significance of a family- and community-inclusive approach.
The conference provided a platform for exchanging experiences and presenting innovative solutions in the fight against addiction. The Office for Combating Drugs remains committed to supporting programs focused on prevention, treatment, and education, calling on all sectors of society to collaborate in creating a healthy and safe environment for all citizens.