Since its founding in 2016 by the Turkish Green Crescent Society, the International Federation of Green Crescent (IFGC) has brought together 97 Green Crescents from across the world, united by a shared mission to build healthier communities. Today, we’re thrilled to mark our 8th anniversary as we continue to grow our global collaboration for a brighter future. As we enter another year, we renew our dedication to tackling addiction. With more than a century of experience to guide us, we remain focused on protecting public health, addressing addiction, and raising awareness worldwide. Together, we move forward, determined and inspired to make a lasting difference. Together, we’re stronger!

The International Federation of Green Crescent (IFGC) and the Turkish Green Crescent Counseling Center (YEDAM) co-hosted a webinar on November 7, 2024, focusing on gambling addiction. The program, titled "Approaching Gambling Addiction: An Overview of the YEDAM Model and Case Study Applications," aimed to educate Country Green Crescents on the topic. Discussions covered addiction risk factors, symptoms, and recovery methods, while YEDAM experts introduced their intervention model with actionable insights from real-world case studies. The event focused on various aspects of gambling addiction, including its definition, risk factors, psychological and behavioral symptoms, and effective treatment methods. YEDAM experts shared comprehensive insights into their intervention programs for gambling addiction, complemented by practical recommendations and case study examples. The webinar aimed to raise awareness among Country Green Crescents about gambling addiction and to promote the recognition and application of YEDAM services across the IFGC network. By sharing detailed case studies from Türkiye, the program sought to empower participants with actionable knowledge to address gambling addiction effectively in their respective regions

Istanbul Initiative is a global network of NGOs dedicated to advocating for prevention and recovery efforts. Launched with its first summit in 2019, the initiative focuses on preventing addictions and developing sustainable public health policies. The 5th Istanbul Initiative Summit was held on October 8-9, 2024, ahead of World Mental Health Day. This two-day hybrid event was held at the headquarters of the Turkish Green Crescent Society, with more than 50 participants from over 30 countries. During the 5th Istanbul Initiative Meeting, Country Green Crescents also participated and shared their knowledge and experiences in the field of addiction from Jordan, Albania, Somalia, and Ethiopia, South Africa, and Nigeria. Representatives from various countries delivered impactful presentations on addiction prevention strategies and successful practices. The event concluded with closing speeches from Türkiye's Minister of Family and Social Services, Ms. Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, and the Deputy President of the Turkish Green Crescent Society, Ms. Sümeyye Ceylan. With its commitment to collaboration and innovative approaches, the Istanbul Initiative remains a key platform for advancing efforts in addiction prevention and public health worldwide.