Topic: Khat Ban 4 years on The positive and negative impact
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Open-Minded Debate is a monthly community-focused platform that allows for candid discussion on many important and timely issues that are relevant to the community and wider society. It is about encouraging critical thinking through the exchange of objective dialogue in an open forum, with a panel of experts and an audience.
This months topic is Khat Ban 4 years on The positive and negative impact
June 2014 marks a significant year for the Somali community in the UK, as it was the first time ever in which Khat was classified as a Class C drug. For years Somali activists have campaigned and worked closely with British Government to ban the use of Khat highlighting the social harms and anti-social behaviours.
The banning of Khat has stirred a huge debate within the Somali community, with many suggesting that the ban acted as a direct attack on tradition and cultural practices. Further emphasising the consequences of the criminalisation of Khat and the lack of support for those suffering from ‘withdrawal symptoms. Despite the ban, the consumption of khat has remained a significant problem within the Somali community, with many users simply turning to the black market.
As June 26th signifies 4 years since the UK ban on Khat, this month’s Open-Minded Debate will focus on discussing the impacts of the khat ban both positives and negatives. It will explore the social-economic context of the use of the Khat within the Somali community.
Entry to this event is restricted to confirmation holders only. Places are limited, therefore, please RSVP by replying back to this email by Monday 2nd July 2018. Kindly invite anybody that you think will benefit from this discussion and I would be grateful if you could confirm their details with me beforehand.
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