Pieters (PPA) calls for stronger focus on addiction prevention

ORANJESTAD – Opposition MP Eduard Pieters (PPA) is calling for a stronger national strategy to combat addiction, arguing that the government should prioritize prevention instead of responding only after problems have escalated.

During a parliamentary debate on addiction and mental health, Pieters said addiction should be viewed as a national public health challenge affecting public safety, families and society as a whole, rather than solely as an individual issue.

He argued that police, foundations and healthcare professionals are carrying too much of the burden while the government lacks a coordinated, health-led national approach. Pieters is advocating greater investment in prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration.

According to the PPA parliamentarian, the success of government policy should be measured by how many people avoid addiction, rather than by how many enter the justice or healthcare systems after the damage has already been done.