Addiction to New Drug (Yabaa) Affects Laos May 23, 2009
Posted by roberte in : Addcition, Asia, Drug Laws and Regulations, Narcotics, Substance Abuse, Worldwide , trackback
A large portion of the Laos population is suffering from addiction to a new drug known as “yabaa”. “Yabaa”, which translates to “crazy drug”, is an amphetamine that is easily acquired due to its low price and high availability. The elevated consumption of “yabaa” in Laos is being attributed to the highly addictive property of the drug.
The United Nations’ office of Drug and Crime (UNODC) has estimated that of the 6 million inhabitants of Laos, approximately 40,000 of them are dealing with an addiction to “yabaa”. The UNODC has also pointed out that, currently, the Laos government does not have the means or resources necessary to deal with this new problem.
When it comes to drug related issues in Laos, the legal system generally takes on a punitive approach; for example, drug dealing is punished with life in prison or a death sentence. However, due to lack of funds, a new approach with a rehabilitation-focus is being taken. The new director of the Somsanga Center for Rehabilitation and Treatment, Sisuphanh Boupha, has implemented several changes to help addicts rehabilitate and reintegrate into society.
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