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Taking measures to prevent diseases, improve our health, and extend our lifespan
A disease affecting people from all walks of life
The condition where technology controls a person
Individuals may be referred to addiction treatment centers if deemed necessary
Promoting mental well-being by coping with stress and recognizing abilities
One of the most widely abused substances globally due to nicotine addiction
Activation of the brain's reward pleasure mechanism by repeating a certain behavior
Crucial in preventing relapse after quitting alcohol or drugs.
Complete well-being physically, mentally, and socially
A product containing vaporized nicotine reported as harmful.
1.85 million out of 3 million deaths in 2017 were preventable.
The process of recovery by combating addiction
Inability to quit substances despite knowing the physical and psychological harms
Risking something valuable in hopes of gaining something more valuable
The beginning of the body's purification process after quitting substance use
The process of reintegrating into society healthily
21/11/2025
21.11.2025
The 6th Youth Advocacy Forum (YAF 2025), organized by the Turkish Green Crescent Society in collaboration with UNODC and supported by IFGC, was held between 21–23 November 2025 and brought together 29 young participants from 16 countries, including Country Green Crescent volunteers. This year’s Forum once again underscored the essential role of youth in building healthier, safer, and more resilient societies through sport.
The opening day featured keynote speeches from distinguished participants. Doruk Malhan, Vice President of the Turkish Green Crescent Society, emphasized the importance of empowering youth as advocates for healthier and addiction-free communities. Georgia Dimitropoulou, UNODC Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Officer, highlighted the significance of sport-based prevention in fostering inclusion, justice, and resilience. Dr. Tasnim Atatrah, WHO Representative to Türkiye, underlined the need for youth-centered health promotion and multistakeholder collaboration. Assoc. Prof. Safa Koçoğlu, Deputy Minister from the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports, stressed Türkiye’s commitment to youth leadership and safe community environments through sport. The programme also welcomed Mehmet Kani Polat, Chair of the World Taekwondo Athletes Committee and Captain of the Turkish National Taekwondo Team, who shared his experiences on the power of sportsmanship and discipline in shaping youth development.
Country Green Crescent volunteers supported by IFGC and participating from nine countries included Umma Limongi (Colombia), Fareed Damra (Jordan – Jordan Anti-Drug Society), Antonella Alexandre (Uruguay), Aqilah Binti Zulkifli (Malaysia), Suhail Bismilla (South Africa), Layan Hammad (Jordan), Karim Abou Melhem (Lebanon), Onur Naim (Palestine), Rayane Bouadi (Belgium), Nasser Hafid (Belgium), and Imane Boujemaoui (Belgium).
On 22–23 November, the Forum continued at the Riva National Teams Training and Camp Center with an intensive programme delivered by UNODC’s Georgia Dimitropoulou and Turkish Green Crescent Society trainer Merve Fidan. Participants took part in life skills sessions focusing on critical thinking, media literacy, communication, advocacy, and healthy living, as well as UNODC’s interactive training activities designed to strengthen leadership and resilience. The event concluded with a certificate ceremony and closing session, celebrating the achievements of the young participants and reinforcing their dedication to promoting healthier and safer communities in their respective countries.
Through UNODC’s leadership and the support of IFGC, YAF 2025 successfully strengthened international youth cooperation, empowered young leaders, and advanced sustainable, sport-based approaches to prevention and community well-being worldwide.
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