In an ambitious move to tackle the growing drug problem, Costa Rica will implement the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) strategy in several districts across the country. This approach, proven effective in the United States, aims to address drug risks through community involvement and preventative measures. The districts of Oreamuno in Cartago, Tibás, and Mora in San José will be the first to adopt this strategy, with support from the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica.
What is CADCA?
CADCA, or the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, is a coalition-based initiative that mobilizes community actors to create a structured, multi-faceted approach to drug prevention. The strategy emphasizes the active participation of various community members, including development associations, organized groups, district councils, and other local forces. The goal is to develop tools for preventing drug use and managing overall community health.
First Steps in Costa Rica
Erick Jimenez, Mayor of Oreamuno, explains the initial steps of the program: “We want to form a structure in the district where different community actors actively participate. Establishing development associations, organized groups, district councils, and other important forces will contribute to creating the necessary tools for drug prevention and community health management.”
The program’s implementation in Costa Rica was recently announced at a summit in Chicago. The event was attended by Mayor Jimenez, Mayor of Tibás Alejandro Alvarado, and Vice Mayor of Mora Ariuna Cabal. These leaders share a common belief that addressing security issues requires a focus on prevention, not just reaction.
The Power of Prevention
The CADCA model integrates health promotion factors and the recovery of public spaces, which are crucial for long-term community safety. Mayor Alvarado of Tibás highlighted the importance of this holistic approach: “For the municipalities of the Metropolitan Area, in my case as mayor of Tibás, it is very important because it aligns closely with the Tibás Safe City strategy. We aim to strengthen community safety by empowering the people and the neighbors, so that we all take care of ourselves and create safer cities.”
Ariuna Cabal from Mora added that reactivating pre-pandemic community groups is essential. “There is an active coalition, but after the pandemic, it weakened significantly. With this process, we plan to reactivate it, join efforts, and link up with other cantons to work on a national policy,” Cabal explained.
Community Involvement is Key
The CADCA strategy’s strength lies in its emphasis on community involvement. Rather than relying solely on increased police presence or surveillance, CADCA empowers community members to take an active role in safety and prevention. This approach not only addresses the immediate risks associated with drug use but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility within the community.
The Road Ahead
The hope is that this initiative will eventually be extended to the entire country and become enshrined in law. The municipalities will work closely with the U.S. Embassy to ensure the program’s success and longevity. The collaboration between local governments and international partners underscores the commitment to creating safer, healthier communities.
Mayor Jimenez, Mayor Alvarado, and Vice Mayor Cabal all agree that the CADCA strategy offers a promising path forward for Costa Rica. By focusing on prevention and community engagement, they believe they can make a significant impact on drug use and related issues.
A Model for the Future
As Costa Rica embarks on this new strategy, other countries facing similar challenges will undoubtedly watch closely. The success of the CADCA model in the United States suggests that with the right support and community involvement, Costa Rica could see substantial improvements in public safety and health.
Final Thoughts
The adoption of the CADCA strategy in Costa Rica represents a significant shift towards a more proactive and community-focused approach to drug prevention. By involving local actors and emphasizing prevention over reaction, this initiative has the potential to transform communities and create a safer, healthier environment for all residents.
As the program rolls out, the hope is that its success will pave the way for broader implementation across the country. With continued support from the U.S. Embassy and active participation from community members, Costa Rica could set a new standard for drug prevention and community health.
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