International organizations host experts in Turkish metropolis

(MENAFN) A recent gathering in Istanbul brought together specialists from multiple countries to address the accelerating rise of gambling and other digital-driven behavioral addictions. According to reports, the session focused on how governments can better recognize emerging patterns of dependency—especially those linked to social media, online gaming, and internet-based gambling—and how early intervention can reduce long-term health consequences.

The event, identified in reports as the 3rd IFGC-WHO Meeting on Addictive Behaviours and jointly convened by several international organizations, explored how public health systems can more effectively assess, diagnose, and respond to rapidly evolving addictive behaviors. Participants examined the expanding global impact of technology-related addictions and discussed frameworks for early detection before such behaviors escalate into severe personal or societal harm.

During the opening remarks, Mehmet Dinc, who leads the Turkish Green Crescent Society, highlighted the scale of the problem, noting that millions worldwide are directly affected by compulsive engagement with digital platforms. He warned that:

“Today, digital platforms are designed to constantly keep attention, manipulate behavior, and create addiction,” and added, “The price for this is often paid by mental health, financial stability, family well-being, and social cohesion.”

He urged communities and authorities alike to adopt swift, comprehensive, and coordinated measures to curb the spread of these behaviors and protect vulnerable populations.

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