ECOWAS Parliament mobilizes against drug abuse and for mental health

The Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) conducted an awareness-raising mission on drug abuse and for mental health from 16 to 19 June 2025, in Conakry, Guinea. 

This initiative seeks to alert key stakeholders about the escalating challenges posed by substance abuse and for mental health disorders, an issue of growing concern in West Africa. 

Led by a delegation of ECOWAS parliamentarians, supported by parliamentary staff, the mission facilitated in-depth discussions with national stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, recovering youth, government representatives, civil society organizations, and local authorities. The delegation also conducted field visits to specialized treatment centers. 

The discussions highlighted the magnitude of the challenges: drug abuse not only undermines public health but also jeopardizes security, social stability, and economic development. Mental health disorders remain frequently overlooked due to inadequate resources and the lack of structured public policies. 

The mission emphasized the urgent need for an integrated and coordinated regional approach, grounded in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. It also advocated for strengthening mental health services, improving access to care, and fostering multisectoral partnerships. 

Through this campaign, the ECOWAS Parliament aims to formulate recommendations to support member states in developing more effective and inclusive legislation capable of addressing the complexity of this issue.  This initiative aligns with ECOWAS’s ongoing efforts to build a resilient and united community committed to safeguarding the well-being of its youth.