Russia's top experts unite to tackle addiction at landmark forum

The fifth anniversary All-Russian Interdisciplinary Scientific and Practical Forum, Current Issues in Addictology, took place on May 14 and 15 at Privolzhsky Research Medical University. Organised by the Drug Control Directorate of the Russian Interior Ministry’s regional branch, the event brought together experts from over 50 regions, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, and Yekaterinburg. The forum opened with a ceremony led by Ivan Karpukhin, representing the university’s Department of Psychiatry under the Russian Ministry of Health. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Roman Stronhin, Chairman of the Council of Rectors of Higher Education Institutions in the Volga Federal District and Nizhny Novgorod Region.

Police Colonel Roman Orekhov, Deputy Head of the Drug Control Directorate, stressed the importance of a coordinated approach to addressing addiction. Sergei Ostroumov, a member of the Public Council under the regional Interior Ministry, also contributed to the discussions.

Participants examined the factors driving drug use and addiction trends among young people. The event included presentations on effective prevention methods and best practices for tackling socially harmful behaviours. The goal was to develop actionable proposals to shape future prevention strategies. The forum provided a platform for specialists to exchange insights and identify solutions. Discussions focused on practical steps to combat addiction and improve public health measures. The outcomes are expected to inform policies and programmes in the coming years.