In brief
Sri Lanka recorded a 19.21 % drug relapse rate for those who completed rehabilitation in the first ten months of 2026, down from 24.5 % in 2025. The number of individuals remaining drug‑free rose to 45.18 %, and the government is widening its outreach, especially to hotel workers. Sources warn that long‑term outcomes and the effectiveness of tourism‑focused campaigns remain unconfirmed.
Colombo – A report released by the Bureau of Rehabilitation on Thursday showed that Sri Lanka’s drug relapse rate among individuals who finished rehabilitation programs fell to 19.21 percent in the first 10 months of 2026, a sharp decline from 24.5 percent the year before.
According to the bureau’s data, the proportion of people who stayed free from dangerous drugs after completing treatment increased from 31.4 percent in 2025 to 45.18 percent between January 1 and October 30, 2026, marking an improvement of 13.78 percentage points.
The bureau’s Director General, M.S. Hameed, explained that the national anti‑drug operation, "A Nation United," has broadened its reach. He noted that awareness programs were being intensified, particularly within the tourism industry, which employs a sizable portion of the population.
Expanding Awareness in Tourism
Hameed said the bureau had launched targeted outreach in districts such as Gampaha and areas in the Southern Province. The plan includes a schedule for November 9 that focuses on employees of major tourist hotels in Sigiriya and Dambulla, with the latter designated as the central location for the initiative.
The bureau highlighted that 14 percent of those who sought treatment at its rehabilitation centers were employed in the hotel and tourism sector. In response to requests from the hospitality industry, the bureau is conducting awareness sessions in several key districts to address addiction risks among workers.
During the briefing, Hameed encouraged individuals struggling with drug addiction and their families to pursue voluntary rehabilitation rather than awaiting legal intervention. He stressed that early, self‑initiated help can improve long‑term recovery prospects.
While the reported figures point to progress, the bureau acknowledges that several aspects remain uncertain. It has not yet determined whether the reduced relapse rate will sustain beyond the first ten months of 2026 or how the new tourism‑focused programs will influence long‑term sobriety. Future assessments will rely on ongoing monitoring and data collection from rehabilitation centers across the country.
