The ECCNA, or European Conference and Convention of Narcotics Anonymous, was held from July 12 to 14, 2024, in Helsinki. I had the honor of opening the event this year.

**

Dear friends,
 
Warm welcome to Finland and especially to our beautiful city of Helsinki. My name is Johanna Laisaari and I am the deputy mayor of Education in Helsinki. It is an honor that European conference and convention of narcotics anonymous (ECCNA) is organized for second time in Finland during its history. For me it shows that Finnish Narcotics anonymous are making good and impressive work. I want to thank you for doing that. Over thirty six years of action is a very long time in Finland.
 
As a deputy mayor I am glad that the cooperation with you and the city of Helsinki has worked well. I think that one important thing is that we have caring professionals in our city and also everywhere else. They have important part for people to find these kinds of communities and support.
 
Overall I think that for NA work it is important to build relationships with other people and services. That is a key to make as effective and wide work as possible. This is also how your great program gets more visibility and can help more people.
 
This year theme of the conference is The new way of life. That means that this weekend is made for celebrating the recovery, enjoying the life without drugs and also discussions about the new way of life.
 
I hope that you have time to enjoy the free time program that the Finns have arranged to you. The specialty of Finnish summers are very bright nights. Even here in Helsinki. You will definitely notice it.
 
Once more, welcome to Helsinki and thank you all for the good and important work you have done. Let’s continue helping each other also in the future. I believe that when you do good to others, you also get that back. That is how we can make the world better place.
 
Have joyful and bright summer!