Drug demand reduction is very important. In Lebanon, we prioritise preventive education to raise awareness so that people do not use drugs. We target schools and wider society through media, press and direct communication. The second stage in education is to target drug users who cannot stop using drugs. We encourage them to go to health and treatment centres.

We deal with drug users very seriously and they can be subjected to penalties of up to three years in prison. The drug user is also an unhealthy and sick person and in need of treatment. We encourage drug users to go to treatment, so as not to go to prison. If he or she relapses, they are sent to prison.

With regards to human rights, we observe all human rights instruments, but we wonder what would we do if drug users did not voluntarity seek treatment. We would arrest the drug user and make them enter treatment.