Brasilia, 16 October, 2024 - The National Secretariat for Drug Policy and Asset Management of the United Nations and the Brazilian Ministry of Justice and Public Security (SENAD/MJSP), in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has announced the opening of applications for volunteer researchers to join the CRIA Science Committee. This committee is part of the Brazilian federal government’s program, CRIA: Prevention and Citizenship in Drug Policy, aimed at advancing scientific research and promoting effective drug policy. 

CRIA Science aims to promote the production of scientific knowledge on prevention in the field of alcohol and drugs, as well as supporting the formulation of public policies aimed at promoting citizenship. The Scientific Committee will act as an advisory group, providing a bridge between academia and public management, with the aim of strengthening the use of scientific evidence in decision-making.  

“This initiative represents a significant step forward in the construction of public policies informed by scientific evidence in the field of drugs. The Scientific Committee - CRIA Science reflects our commitment to connecting academic production with public management, promoting more effective and inclusive solutions for prevention and citizenship. The participation of researchers committed to these agendas, especially from vulnerable groups, is essential if we are to build a fairer and healthier future for everyone,” says Marta Machado, National Secretary for Drug Policy and Asset Management at the Ministry of Justice and Public Security. 

Candidate profile:  

Researchers from diverse academic disciplines, with demonstratedexpertise in the field of alcohol and other drugs, and affiliated with universities, research institutions, or civil society organizations, are invited to apply. The program strongly encourages applications from individuals belonging to vulnerable groups, including black individuals, Indigenous Peoples, Quilombolas, as well as other traditional communities. 

Timetable:  

Those interested should fill in the application form available through this Application Form and the full notice can be accessed by clicking here.  

More information can be obtained via e-mail: edital.comite@mj.gov.br  

Take part and contribute to strengthening prevention science in Brazil!  

The CRIA Program: Prevention and Citizenship  

Launched in 2024, the CRIA - Prevention and Citizenship program is a national strategy to prevent the use and problematic use of alcohol and other drugs, as well as associated negative outcomes. Under the Protection for Children and Adolescents axis, there are initiatives aimed at tackling violence in the school context, developing skills, tackling bullying and strengthening family ties with children and adolescents aged 6 to 14, as well as providing training for managers with the aim of supporting their decisions in the field of prevention regarding which initiatives to prioritize and incorporate, based on evidence. The axis is also responsible for disseminating guiding content in the field of prevention, as well as encouraging dialog and intersectoral and inter-federative collaboration.