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Substance Abuse In Incarcerated Populations Essay

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Substance Abuse In Incarcerated Populations Essay
Committee: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
Topic: Combatting Drug Usage in Incarcerated Populations
Nation: China
Delegate: Azzara Nincevic, American Heritage School Plantation
The abuse of drugs by incarcerated peoples is a rapidly growing issue among all nations. The goal of prison is to reform and rehabilitate former criminals, however this goal cannot be accomplished if more and more prisoners are abusing controlled substances. It is estimated that over 80% of prisoners abuse a controlled substance, and over 65% of prisoners are clinically addicted. Because these numbers are based on reported cases, the actual percentage are likely much higher. These statistics reflect a dire situation that must be addressed.
China has taken extensive international action
…show more content…
This is necessary in order to create safer environments that effectively reform criminals and adequately prepare them for integration into society. The first and foremost cause is the flow of drugs into convicted populations. We need to investigate how controlled substances are being trafficked into prisons, and we need to combat the transport of contraband within the prison system. The second major cause is the lack of rehabilitation for incarcerated peoples who were substance abusers before their convictions. If an addict is convicted and does not receive adequate support and health resources to overcome their addiction, the convict is more likely to abuse drugs in prison and become a repeat offender after prison. It is estimated that while over 65% of prisoners can be classified as clinically addicted, only 11% of prisoners receive proper treatment for a clinical addiction. In order to effectively resolve substance abuse in incarcerated populations, we must staunch the trafficking of drugs into prisons and provide the necessary support system for clinically addicted

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