Promotive And Preventive Methods In Combating The Spread And Abuse Of Drugs In A Repressive And Human Manner

Abstract

Background: Drug abuse remains a major public health issue affecting physical, psychological, social, economic, and security aspects of society. The increasing prevalence of illicit drug use, particularly among young adults and productive-age populations, requires comprehensive prevention and control strategies. Drug control should not rely solely on law enforcement but should also integrate health promotion, prevention, rehabilitation, and human-centered approaches.

Objective: This review aims to analyze promotive and preventive strategies in combating drug abuse while examining the effectiveness of repressive and humane approaches based on current scientific evidence.

Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using publications retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Garuda. Articles published between 2020 and 2025 in Indonesian and English discussing health promotion, prevention, rehabilitation, harm reduction, and law enforcement related to drug abuse were included.

Results: Health promotion through education, public awareness campaigns, community empowerment, and family resilience improves knowledge and regarding attitudes towards drug abuse. Preventive strategies including early detection, school-based interventions, environmental monitoring, and multisector collaboration effectively reduce risk factors. Repressive approaches remain essential for combating illicit drug trafficking, whereas rehabilitation and harm reduction provide significant benefits for individuals experiencing substance dependence.

Conclusion: Effective drug control requires integrated promotive, preventive, repressive, and rehabilitative strategies. Public health and human rights-based approaches offer more sustainable outcomes in reducing drug abuse and improving the quality of life of affected individuals.