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Sep 18 '25, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Date and time

Thursday, September 18, 2025
14:00–15:00 CEST (Vienna time)

Place

Online – Zoom webinar (in English with interpretation into Spanish)

Registration link

Click here to register

Background

The social determinants of health—the conditions in which people are born, live, learn, work, and age—play a significant role in shaping risks and outcomes, including vulnerability to drug use. Factors such as poverty, gender, and ethnicity strongly influence exposure to risks and resilience.

This thematic discussion, part of the series From Drug Use Prevention to Social Integration, will explore the interplay between social determinants and drug use, highlighting case studies, research, and community-driven solutions.

Objectives

  • Examine how social and economic conditions contribute to drug use risks and outcomes
  • Highlight case studies from diverse global contexts
  • Discuss the role of the alcohol industry in shaping environments and behaviors
  • Share evidence-based strategies and community perspectives for prevention and integration

Event Programme

Moderators
  • Giovanna Campello, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
  • Oriol Esculies, Association Proyecto Hombre, Spain
Speakers
  • Introduction: Dr. Marica Ferri, European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA)
  • The Cycle of Poverty: The “Favelas” Case – Dr. Pablo Kurlander, Facultade Inspirar, Brazil
  • The Influence of Alcohol Industry – Kristina Sperkova, Movendi International, Sweden
  • Indigenous Peoples and Ethnic Minorities: The Evidence is Clear – Wendy Muñoz, University of Arizona, United States
  • The Power of Communities: The Way Forward – Dr. David Patton, University of Derby, United Kingdom

Audience

  • Policymakers, researchers, and practitioners working on drug use prevention
  • Civil society organizations and community groups
  • Advocates for social justice, health equity, and youth well-being
  • UN agencies and international partners

Looking ahead

By addressing social determinants and tackling inequities, prevention strategies can become more effective and sustainable. This discussion aims to strengthen global understanding and action to promote healthier environments, reduce vulnerabilities, and foster social integration.