The Municipality of Athens reiterates its firm position in favor of a substantive, humane and inclusive approach to the issue of substance use in the center of Athens. This is a multifaceted social and public health problem , which requires immediate and coordinated solutions aimed at restoring the dignity of addicted individuals and improving the daily lives of all residents.
The Action Plan of the Municipality of Athens to combat drugs, unanimously approved by the Municipal Council on February 26, 2025, reflects an inclusive and scientifically documented strategy , based on principles of prevention, care and social reintegration.
The Municipality already operates a user accommodation structure in collaboration with the Hellenic Association of Public Health, has purchased two mobile units for supervised use and is proceeding with information and prevention programs through “ATHENS HEALTH”. All of this aims at an open and fair city that leaves no one behind .
However, the reality on the streets remains harsh. Places like Agios Ierotheos, Agios Pavlos, Karaiskaki, Klafthmonos and Kaningos squares host people who experience alienation and marginalization every day. Inclusion means taking care of these people without burdening specific neighborhoods, which already carry a disproportionate burden.
Therefore, the Municipality points out that any intervention plan, such as the one announced by the government, must be accompanied by transparency, clear identification of the locations of new structures and, above all, by a balanced distribution throughout Attica , so as not to worsen the situation in already vulnerable areas.
We cannot talk about social inclusion if we do not first ensure conditions of equality for everyone: dependents, neighbors, professionals, visitors, children.
The Municipality of Athens remains committed to a policy that does not punish diversity, does not turn a blind eye to dependency, but fights for social cohesion . It will continue to actively participate and support every measure that promotes people, without further burdening the already stressed neighborhoods of the capital.
