Drug Laws and Legal Processes in Turkey

Turkey is a country that enforces strict laws and regulations in the fight against drugs and illegal substances. In this article, we will examine the laws concerning drugs and illegal substances in Turkey, the legal and criminal consequences, enforcement practices, information resources, and current developments.

Key Laws on Drugs and Illegal Substances in Turkey

The primary laws regarding drugs and illegal substances in Turkey are set by Law No. 2313 on the Control of Narcotic Substances, adopted in 1971. This law covers regulations related to the production, trafficking, use, and possession of narcotic substances. Turkey collaborates with international organizations like the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to develop effective strategies in the fight against drugs.

Key Legal Regulations

• Possession of Narcotic Substances: Possession of narcotic substances above certain amounts is subject to severe penalties.
• Drug Trafficking: Drug trafficking is among the most serious crimes and results in imprisonment.
• Drug Use: Drug use is divided into two separate categories: cases requiring rehabilitation programs and those requiring penalties.

Enforcement and Programs Regarding Drugs and Illegal Substances in Turkey

Turkey has developed various practices and programs to combat drugs and illegal substances. These initiatives aim to raise awareness in all segments of society.

Examples of Programs

• Educational Programs: Anti-drug education programs are organized in schools and universities. These programs inform students about the dangers and effects of drugs.
• Rehabilitation Centers: Rehabilitation centers for drug addicts offer treatment and support services.
• Public Health Campaigns: Campaigns are conducted to inform the public about the harms of drug use.

You can also check out our article on Smoking and Indoor Area Regulations in Turkey.

Information Resources and Support Hotlines for Illegal Substances

• • AMATEM (Alcohol and Substance Addiction Treatment and Education Center): These are specialized hospital services where adult addicts receive inpatient and outpatient treatment. They operate within mental and neurological diseases hospitals in various provinces of Turkey or as independent centers.
  • ÇEMATEM (Child and Adolescent Substance Addiction Treatment Center): These are centers that offer special treatment and rehabilitation services for addicted children and adolescents under the age of 18.
  • Healthy Life Centers (SHM): As part of primary healthcare services, they offer addiction counseling and preventive services.

    The most important official and civil society resources and support hotlines you can contact in Turkey for information about illegal substances, to combat addiction, or to support a loved one are as follows:

    I. Addiction Support Hotlines

    These hotlines were established to provide free, confidential, and professional support to individuals struggling with addiction and their families.

    Hotline Name	Phone Number	Service Provider	Scope of Service
    ALO 191	191	Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health	Drug Addiction Counseling and Support Hotline. It provides live service on a 24/7 basis. Its main services are providing information and referrals to treatment centers (AMATEM/ÇEMATEM).
    YEDAM Counseling Hotline	115	Yeşilay Counseling Center	Offers free and confidential psychosocial support, information, and appointment services by expert psychologists on alcohol, tobacco, substance, and technology addiction.

    II. Information Resources and Treatment Centers

    1. Yeşilay (Turkish Green Crescent Society)

    It is Turkey’s most established and widespread non-governmental organization in the fight against addiction.

    • Yeşilay Counseling Centers (YEDAM): Located in many provinces of Turkey, YEDAMs provide in-person and free psychosocial support and outpatient treatment services for all types of addiction, including substance addiction.

    2. Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health

    These are the official health institutions where addiction treatment processes are carried out.

  Important:

  1. Confidentiality and Security: Calls made to support hotlines like ALO 191 and the YEDAM Counseling Hotline are handled under the principle of confidentiality. The goal is for a person struggling with addiction to receive professional help by calling these lines without facing legal issues.
  2. Referrals: These support hotlines provide referrals to the most appropriate treatment center (AMATEM/ÇEMATEM) or local YEDAM unit for the individual’s situation.
  3. Legal Information: To obtain definitive information about legal processes and criminal sanctions, you must consult a lawyer or judicial authorities. The support hotlines primarily provide medical and psychosocial support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What laws apply to illegal substances in Turkey?

In Turkey, Law No. 2313 on the Control of Narcotic Substances applies to illegal substances.

What is the penalty for drug possession?

The penalty for drug possession varies depending on the amount. For small quantities, a rehabilitation program is usually implemented, while large quantities result in imprisonment.

What support hotlines are available in Turkey for combating drug use?

In Turkey, support hotlines like Alo 191 and those run by Yeşilay offer information and support for combating drug use.

Where are the rehabilitation centers for drug addiction located?

There are rehabilitation centers for drug addiction in many cities across Turkey. These centers provide treatment and support services.