Programs and Events

Ambassador Haslach Warns Students about the Dangers of Methamphetamine Use

Ambassador Haslach discusses the dangers of drug abuse with Vientiane students

On November 1, Ambassador Haslach gave a speech on the dangers of methamphetamine to a group of young people at the American Corner at the Lao-American College, Vientiane. The Ambassador described the dangerous and addictive nature of methamphetamines, which, as “ya-baa” (inexpensive pills combining meth with caffeine), has gained a disturbing level of popularity among youth throughout Laos. She told the story of a real-life American teenager’s descent into addiction, crime, jail and psychosis and his long, difficult journey to recovery. The Ambassador described a visit to a drug treatment center in Laos, where she saw young people whose minds had been destroyed by ya-baa. One young man didn’t even know his name. She appealed to the young people to stay away from meth and to seek adult help for friends who use it. After the speech, the Ambassador and Embassy staff members answered students’ questions about drug abuse and the students shared their own concerns about the harmful effects of ya-baa on their families, friends, and communities.