New law introduces drug tests for Russian students

From December 2013 students in Moscow will be required by law to be tested for drug abuse. The tests will be done in two stages, the first being a questionnaire designed to indicate psychological problems related to substance abuse. The second stage is a medical test to determine if the student has been taking drugs.

Students who test positive will be referred to psychologists and other experts who will work with the students and their families to help to resolve the students’ drug problems.

The tests will be offered on a voluntary basis and parents and students can opt not to take the psychological test; however, a new federal law has been passed that means these tests must at least be offered.

The new law was signed by Putin in June 2013. The two-stage test was described as a socio-psychological questionnaire and a medical test and examination to find any traces of narcotic substances in students’ systems. This will probably be a urine test and hair follicle test to detect drugs taken during the last two months.

The decision to pass the bill followed a report that around 25% of all 11- to 24-year-olds have tried drugs.

The tests will be for all students at secondary schools, vocational schools, colleges and universities. The objective is to detect drug usage early to prevent long-term abuse and addiction.

The law dictates that schools and universities must maintain student confidentiality in respect of the results.