The International Green Crescent Journal has released its fifth issue, continuing its mission to shed light on global challenges in the field of addiction, migration, crisis, wars, and public health. This edition brings together diverse perspectives, expert commentaries, and on-the-ground experiences from different regions of the world, reflecting the journal’s dedication to raising awareness and fostering solutions for healthier societies. This issue features a wide range of important articles and commentaries, including: Decoding Migration and Addiction in Europe – An in-depth interview with Charlotte De Kock, examining the links between migration flows and addiction risks. Syria’s Captagon Conundrum and the Jordan-Syria Case – Commentary by Mousa Daoud exploring the Captagon crisis and its cross-border implications. “We Cannot See Tomorrow!” –A critical interview with Al-Huda Association from Palestine, focusing on addiction treatment amid the devastating humanitarian crisis. Drug Addiction: A Global Threat and Societal Challenges in Pakistan – Commentary by Dr. Syed Abdurrehman analyzing the widespread impact of drug use in South Asia. The Unwilling Migration and Addiction: A Literature Review of Venezuelan Refugees in Brazil – Scholarly commentary by Silva, Ferreira, and Aich, connecting forced migration with vulnerability to addiction. Refugees and Addiction in Global and Regional Dimensions – Article by Şeyma Ebru Altıntaş providing a comparative look at refugees’ pain worldwide. Sustainable Development Goals and Public Health – Commentary by Rachael Stanton highlighting how global goals intersect with health and addiction prevention. Alcohol-Substance Use Disorders and Disasters – Article by Gamze Zengin İspir examining how disasters increase vulnerability to substance use. With the theme “Transforming Crisis into Recovery”, this issue emphasizes the resilience of societies facing conflict, displacement, and disaster while striving for healthier futures.   📖 Explore full issue here in English 📖 Explore full issue here in Turkish

The Second World Summit for Social Development, held on 5 November 2025 in Doha, Qatar under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), brought together global leaders and experts to discuss inclusive and sustainable development. Among the distinguished participants was Amb. Dr. Mehmet Güllüoğlu, Secretary-General of the International Federation of Green Crescents (IFGC) and Vice President of the Turkish Green Crescent Society. During the summit, Amb. Dr. Güllüoğlu delivered a two-minute intervention at the physical event organized by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Family and Social Services. In his remarks, he emphasized the central role of the family in preventing addiction and strengthening social resilience. Dr. Güllüoğlu underlined that “behind every resilient individual stands a strong and caring family,” describing the family as society’s most powerful protector. He highlighted the Turkish Green Crescent’s family-centered prevention model, stressing that prevention begins at home—with informed parents, connected families, and supportive communities. Addressing the challenges posed by digitalization, migration, and economic pressures, he called for holistic policy approaches that reinforce family well-being, emotional connection, and healthy digital habits. In addition to his in-person contribution, Amb. Dr. Güllüoğlu participated in an online session, titled “Addressing the Economic and Social Costs of Addiction for Inclusive and Sustainable Development.” The session gathered international experts and partner organizations working in addiction prevention and social policy. The session featured speakers including Mehmet Fatih Kılıç (Ministry of Family and Social Services, Republic of Türkiye), Yasmine Sabih (Al Najm), Matej Košir (UTRIP Institute), George Ochieng Odalo (Slum Child Foundation), and Michael Dean (Community Alliances for Drug-Free Youth – CADFY). They discussed the complex economic and social impacts of addiction, emphasizing the need for stronger, coordinated global action and sharing practical strategies to address these challenges. In his contribution, Dr. Güllüoğlu emphasized that addiction must be addressed not only as a health concern but also as a major social and economic challenge affecting productivity, social cohesion, and sustainable development. He reaffirmed the IFGC’s commitment to fostering global partnerships that promote preventive education, community resilience, and inclusive policies aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The International Federation of Green Crescents (IFGC), in collaboration with YEDAM (Green Crescent Counseling Center), organized an international webinar titled “Motivational Interviewing in Addiction Recovery: YEDAM’s Psychosocial Approach” on November 6, 2025. The one-hour interactive session brought together participants from across the world to exchange knowledge and experiences on the role of motivational interviewing in addiction recovery. Throughout the webinar, YEDAM Psychologist İrem Dönmez provided an in-depth overview of how motivational interviewing techniques can strengthen communication with clients, address field-related challenges, and enhance psychosocial support through evidence-based approaches. Conducted entirely in English with simultaneous French interpretation, the session also featured practical examples and case discussions contributed by Country Green Crescents, fostering a rich and collaborative learning environment. The webinar was moderated by Dr. Balqis Binti Muhamad Kasim, Secretary General of Pertubuhan Bulan Sabit Hijau Malaysia (Malaysia Green Crescent), ensuring a dynamic and engaging discussion throughout the session. Participants actively contributed through Q&A and open discussion segments, exchanging experiences and perspectives from their respective countries while exploring shared challenges and collaborative solutions.