Socio-occupational insertion of past drug addicts in Lebanon: Perceptions, reality and challenges
This research studied the social and occupational insertion of past drug addicts in Lebanon according to the experience of various stakeholders concerned. It aimed at exploring their perception of the phenomenon studied and the insertion strategies applied according to specific issues, as well as identifying courses of action that would be liable to reinforce their success. Focus groups were conducted with a heterogeneous population: persons dealing with this problem, parents, directors and professionals of specialized social institutions, and members of city councils as a local governance authority. Moreover, an analysis of the official literature and semi-structured interviews with various governmental figures were carried out. The results of this research highlight the efforts deployed by individuals, institutions and state agencies in favour of the social and occupational insertion of the past drug addict. The accountability of the latter was revealed in that he is called on to undergo treatment and become sober while continuing to face social discrimination due to several shortcomings in the government’s approach. Moreover, this research emphasized the importance and urgency of working together to facilitate social and occupational insertion, which is decisive in preventing relapses and in the struggle against the use of drugs. The study led to recommendations that provide guidelines for a preventive social policy concerning drug addiction which has positive repercussions on the social and occupational insertion of persons struggling with this problem.