Drug use among young people in Aruba is becoming increasingly serious and alarming, according to Gino Frans, Director of Stichting Eliezer, who is calling for urgent and coordinated action to address the growing problem.
Frans stated that today’s youth have more access to information about drugs than ever before. Through social media, mobile phones, and the internet, young people not only learn about different substances, but also where to obtain them and how to use them—often possessing more knowledge than authorities and professionals in the field. This reality, he warned, has made the drug problem among youth more complex and dangerous.
According to Frans, this is not a new issue, but one that continues to worsen. He emphasized that organizations working in prevention and support, including Respaldo, Stichting Hunto, Stichting Eliezer, government agencies, and others, must come together to develop joint strategies. Aruba, he noted, has capable professionals who could achieve better results through stronger collaboration.
Frans also advocated for the creation of a dedicated center for youth, pointing out that there are many unused or deteriorating buildings on the island that could be repurposed to provide professional care and support for young people struggling with substance abuse—within their own country.
He identified several contributing factors driving young people toward drugs at an early age, including parents working multiple jobs and leaving children unsupervised, as well as households lacking parental support due to absent or disengaged caregivers. According to Frans, meaningful change must begin at home.
As a key recommendation to parents, Frans urged open and honest communication with children from a young age. He stressed that adults should not underestimate children’s awareness, noting that through digital media, young people are exposed to information far earlier than many parents realize. “Do not be afraid to talk to them,” he said, emphasizing that dialogue and guidance are essential tools in prevention.
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