The Dominican Republic is set to become a pivotal center for knowledge sharing and scientific collaboration in Latin America by hosting the 18th Latin American Conference of Therapeutic Communities (18CLACT). Scheduled for November 5–7, 2025, the event will convene over 50 experts from 16 countries, all dedicated to advancing the care, treatment, and recovery of individuals grappling with substance use disorders (SUD). The conference will be held at the Manuel del Cabral Auditorium in Santo Domingo, organized by the National Drug Council (CND) and the Latin American Federation of Therapeutic Communities (FLACT), with additional support from the Guara Bi Foundation, WestCare Foundation, UASD, and the Ministry of Public Health. The three-day program will feature keynote lectures, research presentations, and specialized panels, emphasizing evidence-based approaches, social inclusion, and dignity in addiction treatment. Notable participants include Public Health Minister Víctor Atallah, CND President Alejandro de Jesús Abreu, and international experts from organizations such as CICAD/OAS, UNODC, WFTC, Proyecto Hombre (Spain), TCA (USA), and Brazil’s DEPAD. Dr. David Patton from the University of Derby (UK) will also contribute virtually, sharing insights on therapeutic community models and rehabilitation policies. The conference will also bring together leaders from the 14 national federations affiliated with FLACT, fostering a robust platform for knowledge exchange and the enhancement of regional public policies. This event underscores the Dominican Republic’s dedication to evidence-based public health strategies, international cooperation, and human-centered approaches to mental health and addiction care.
Dominican Republic to host XVIII Latin American Conference on Therapeutic Communities
