The Croatian National Conference on Addictions titled “Addictions 2030 – Policy, Expertise, and Practice” was held in Šibenik from October 16 to 18, organized by the Croatian Institute of Public Health, under the auspices of the Ministry of Health and with the professional support of the Croatian Medical Association – Croatian Society for Addictions.

The event gathered over 140 experts from various fields related to addictions, including the health sector, educational and social services, the criminal justice system, and scientific and civil society organizations. The conference served as an important platform for exchanging knowledge and experiences in the field of addiction prevention and treatment, as well as for advancing policies and practices in this area.

The Office for Combating Drugs of the Government of the Republic of Serbia remains committed to continued cooperation with international partners to more effectively combat addiction and promote public health across the region.

The attendees were addressed by Assistant Professor Dr. Marija Bubaš, MD, specialist and State Secretary in the Ministry of Health, as well as Associate Professor Dr. Krunoslav Capak, MD, specialist and Director of the Croatian Institute of Public Health.

The aim of the conference was to provide a platform for dialogue and coordinated action in line with the priorities of the National Strategy on Addictions until 2030, to foster a multidisciplinary discussion on key issues in addiction policy, and to achieve a common consensus on how to address future challenges.

Various forms of addiction, including alcohol, energy drinks, tobacco, gambling, internet, and gaming, affect people of all ages, especially the youth. The conference examined numerous aspects of this serious issue, from monitoring trends and preventive measures to treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery perspectives, with a focus on the potential for an integrated approach in addressing emerging challenges.