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As the 52nd session of CND closes, we'd like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to CNDblog over the past 2 weeks for your help in making the debates and discussions at CND more accessible than ever before.
From the outset, the objective of CNDblog has been to make sure that the positions and statements of governments on international drug policy made at CND were available to the public, and that civil society could better hold governments accountable for those positions. In this sense, we have succeeded.
There have been over 150 individual posts and nearly 2,000 unique visitors to CNDblog over the past 10 days. CNDblog has therefore made the deliberations at the 52nd CND accessible in a manner not possible before. These proceedings will be maintained on this site as a permanent resource for civil society organisations working of drug policy and harm reduction issues.
There are many people to thank for making this experiment a success.
Thanks to the dozens of blogs and websites around the world that linked to CNDblog, reposted our materials or promoted the site.
Thanks to our many civil society partners (and many government delegations) over the past 10 days who provided us with the official texts of country statements to post on the blog.
But finally and most importantly, thanks to our small but dedicated team of bloggers who sat through days of often boring CND sessions to ensure that the key points were recorded and posted.
And to our readers, thank you for following CNDblog in 2009. We hope your found our efforts useful. Please let us know your thoughts and suggestions on the blog, and how we can make it better for next year.
Showing newest 76 of 142 posts from March 2009. Show older posts
Showing newest 76 of 142 posts from March 2009. Show older posts
Friday, 20 March 2009
Japan inserts language to try and undermine UNODC harm reduction activities
In the afternoon business, the plenary adopted various reports.
The report on Drug Demand Reduction includes a paragraph on harm reduction, reflecting the diverse views of member states on these interventions. In the plenary, Japan introduced language noting that some harm reduction programmes maintain illicit drug use, and that UNODC should take this into account.
It should be noted that UNODC is the lead agency within the UNAIDS family on HIV and injecting drug use, and CND is the governing board of UNODC.
The contradiction and possible implications of having UNODC's governing board not support harm reduction in the Political Declaration was a concern raised by a number of civil society representatives this week.
The report on Drug Demand Reduction includes a paragraph on harm reduction, reflecting the diverse views of member states on these interventions. In the plenary, Japan introduced language noting that some harm reduction programmes maintain illicit drug use, and that UNODC should take this into account.
It should be noted that UNODC is the lead agency within the UNAIDS family on HIV and injecting drug use, and CND is the governing board of UNODC.
The contradiction and possible implications of having UNODC's governing board not support harm reduction in the Political Declaration was a concern raised by a number of civil society representatives this week.
CND Day 5 - Agenda decided for 2010 session and Costa provides closing speech
The morning session of day 5 of CND was business oriented. Delegates discussed and approved the agenda for next's year's session. They also agreed the final text of the resolutions that has been negotiated this week in the Committee of the Whole.
The afternoon session began with a wrap up speech from UNODC Executive Director, Antonio Maria Costa. He thanked delegates and NGOs for their participation, and noted the many well attended side events organised this year.
Mr Costa reviewed a number of the resolutions passed, and noted the importance of the resolution on data collection as there is need for additional information on drugs and crime to assure activities are evidence-based.
He noted UNODC involvement in organising joint narcotics control agreement between Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan, and cited the first operation under this new agreement on March 8 along the Iran/Afghanistan border resulting in 16 arrests and the seizure of half a ton of opium.
He affirmed UNODC's commitment to put heath at the heart of drug control, and noted a new agreement signed with Iran to fight the spread of HIV among injecting drug users. He also noted the debate over harm reduction at the High Level Segment last week, describing it as a storm in a teacup, and in this regard called the attention of delegates to the UNODC paper produced last year on reducing the negative consequences of drug use.
He noted the need for enhanced funding for UNODC, particular from core UN funds.
The afternoon session began with a wrap up speech from UNODC Executive Director, Antonio Maria Costa. He thanked delegates and NGOs for their participation, and noted the many well attended side events organised this year.
Mr Costa reviewed a number of the resolutions passed, and noted the importance of the resolution on data collection as there is need for additional information on drugs and crime to assure activities are evidence-based.
He noted UNODC involvement in organising joint narcotics control agreement between Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan, and cited the first operation under this new agreement on March 8 along the Iran/Afghanistan border resulting in 16 arrests and the seizure of half a ton of opium.
He affirmed UNODC's commitment to put heath at the heart of drug control, and noted a new agreement signed with Iran to fight the spread of HIV among injecting drug users. He also noted the debate over harm reduction at the High Level Segment last week, describing it as a storm in a teacup, and in this regard called the attention of delegates to the UNODC paper produced last year on reducing the negative consequences of drug use.
He noted the need for enhanced funding for UNODC, particular from core UN funds.
Thursday, 19 March 2009
CND Day 4 - Statement of Human Rights Watch at the supply reduction plenary
Below is the text of the statement of Diederik Lohman on behalf of Human Rights Watch.
'Thank you, Madam Chair.
Let me start by expressing appreciation for ensuring that the voices of NGOs are heard at this meeting.
I make this intervention on behalf of Human Rights Watch.
Ladies and gentleman, as you undoubtedly know, the 1961 Single Convention created a dual obligation for member states: to ensure availability of narcotic drugs for medical and scientific purposes and to prevent the illicit manufacturing of, trafficking in, and use of such drugs.
The Convention called for a balanced approach in which efforts to reduce supply and demand for illicit drugs would not interfere with their availability for medical purposes.
Unfortunately, in the last fifty years that balance has been lost. CND’s focus has almost exclusively been on drug control efforts, without appropriate attention for their availability for medical purposes.
This has sent a message to member states that the issue of availability is of marginal concern.
This has resulted in many countries ignoring their obligation to ensure adequate availability of drugs like morphine and methadone.
In fact, many countries have adopted drug control regulations that are so restrictive that they directly and severely impede the availability of morphine for the treatment of severe pain and of methadone for drug treatment.
The World Health Organization estimates that tens of millions—I repeat: tens of millions—of people suffer from severe pain without access to treatment. Among them are 5.5 million terminal cancer and 1 million end-stage AIDS patients. Millions of people who are dependent on opioids could benefit from methadone substitution treatment but do not have access to it.
Some delegations here have said that availability of controlled medicines should be left to WHO and the INCB, and that CND has no role to play. But this is not the case. Undoubtedly, on a technical level, WHO and INCB are the lead agencies. But CND, as one of the bodies responsible for the implementation of the drug conventions, has an important political and oversight role. It has the duty to call on countries to meet their obligations under the Conventions. So far, it has largely abdicated this responsibility with respect to availability of controlled substances for medical purposes.
Unfortunately, last week’s political declaration continued the trend. It contains just one lonely paragraph on the topic, whereas dozens of paragraphs are devoted to control of illicit drugs. The paragraph fails to make a commitment to improving availability of controlled medicines, to set targets or benchmarks.
Every year, CND talks about the devastation caused by abuse of controlled substances. It is time that it also starts addressing the enormous suffering caused by the lack of availability of controlled medications.
Thank you.'
'Thank you, Madam Chair.
Let me start by expressing appreciation for ensuring that the voices of NGOs are heard at this meeting.
I make this intervention on behalf of Human Rights Watch.
Ladies and gentleman, as you undoubtedly know, the 1961 Single Convention created a dual obligation for member states: to ensure availability of narcotic drugs for medical and scientific purposes and to prevent the illicit manufacturing of, trafficking in, and use of such drugs.
The Convention called for a balanced approach in which efforts to reduce supply and demand for illicit drugs would not interfere with their availability for medical purposes.
Unfortunately, in the last fifty years that balance has been lost. CND’s focus has almost exclusively been on drug control efforts, without appropriate attention for their availability for medical purposes.
This has sent a message to member states that the issue of availability is of marginal concern.
This has resulted in many countries ignoring their obligation to ensure adequate availability of drugs like morphine and methadone.
In fact, many countries have adopted drug control regulations that are so restrictive that they directly and severely impede the availability of morphine for the treatment of severe pain and of methadone for drug treatment.
The World Health Organization estimates that tens of millions—I repeat: tens of millions—of people suffer from severe pain without access to treatment. Among them are 5.5 million terminal cancer and 1 million end-stage AIDS patients. Millions of people who are dependent on opioids could benefit from methadone substitution treatment but do not have access to it.
Some delegations here have said that availability of controlled medicines should be left to WHO and the INCB, and that CND has no role to play. But this is not the case. Undoubtedly, on a technical level, WHO and INCB are the lead agencies. But CND, as one of the bodies responsible for the implementation of the drug conventions, has an important political and oversight role. It has the duty to call on countries to meet their obligations under the Conventions. So far, it has largely abdicated this responsibility with respect to availability of controlled substances for medical purposes.
Unfortunately, last week’s political declaration continued the trend. It contains just one lonely paragraph on the topic, whereas dozens of paragraphs are devoted to control of illicit drugs. The paragraph fails to make a commitment to improving availability of controlled medicines, to set targets or benchmarks.
Every year, CND talks about the devastation caused by abuse of controlled substances. It is time that it also starts addressing the enormous suffering caused by the lack of availability of controlled medications.
Thank you.'
Wednesday, 18 March 2009
Statement of the International Harm Reduction Association at the demand reduction plenary
The following statement was delivered by Rick Lines on behalf of the International Harm Reduction Association.
'Thank you Mr Chair.
I’m sure I speak on behalf of my two colleagues on my left when I thank you for enabling civil society to participate in today’s session, and ensuring time on the agenda for us to be heard.
I am here today representing the International Harm Reduction Association. Our statement is supported by the Asian Harm Reduction Network, the Caribbean Harm Reduction Coalition, the Eurasian Harm Reduction Network, Intercambios Asosciacion Civil, the Middle East and North Africa Harm Reduction Network, the Sub Saharan Africa Harm Reduction Network, the Canadian Harm Reduction Network, Colectivo por Una Politica Integral Hacia las Drogas, the Harm Reduction Coalition in the US, the International Network of People who Use Drugs, the International Nursing Harm Reduction Network, the Women’s International Harm Reduction Network and YouthRISE.
In June 1998, the United Nations General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) on the World Drug Problem adopted a resolution entitled ‘International action to combat drug abuse and illicit production and trafficking’. Despite the fact that the link between HIV transmission and unsafe injecting drug use was well-known at that time, the UNGASS political declaration was silent on both HIV prevention and on harm reduction.
Today, more than 10 years on from the UNGASS on drugs, it is estimated that 15.9 million people inject drugs in 158 countries and territories around the world. Since the 1998 political declaration was adopted, many regions of the world have experienced an explosion of injecting-driven HIV infection. In some regions, up to 80% of people living with HIV are likely to have acquired the virus through unsafe injecting. In countries as diverse as China, Estonia, India, Kenya, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand and Vietnam, HIV prevalence rates among people who inject drugs reach over 50%.
During this same period, injecting-related hepatitis C infection has remained a major unaddressed health concern, with prevalence rates among injectors reaching as high as 95% in some countries. The vast majority of people who inject drugs in countries as far-ranging as Indonesia, Thailand, Pakistan, Mauritius, Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, Ukraine, Luxembourg and Switzerland are living with hepatitis C. Ultimately, death and disease related to hepatitis C may take a bigger toll on drug injectors than HIV infection.
Last week, a High Level Segment of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) adopted a new Political Declaration on drugs. It was apparent from the negotiations towards agreed language in this Declaration that a small number of countries are prepared to go to extreme lengths to block support for evidence-based, public health led approaches to drug use from appearing in CND resolutions. These obstructionist governments – including the United States, Russia, Japan, Italy and Sweden – blocked any reference to harm reduction in the Declaration, despite the fact that up to 10% of all global HIV infections occur through unsafe injecting drug use (and over 25% of all infections outside Sub-Saharan Africa), and the best evidence suggests that over 3 million people who inject drugs are living with HIV.
CND’s failure to embrace harm reduction, and the continued obstruction of a small number of governments to even non-binding statements of support for harm reduction programmes within the Political Declaration, clearly illustrate the degree to which the Commission is not only out of step with the scientific and medical evidence supporting harm reduction, but is also isolated from the mainstream of UN opinion on this key health policy issue.
Harm reduction is explicitly supported by the UN General Assembly, UNAIDS, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, the World Health Organization, the International Narcotics Control Board, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and others. At least 84 countries around the world explicitly support, or allow the operation of, harm reduction programmes. Moreover, in 2002 the Legal Affairs Section of the UN Drug Control Programme affirmed the legality of harm reduction programmes – including opioid substitution therapy, syringe exchange and safe injecting facilities – under the international drug conventions. This finding authoritatively refutes the continued allegations by obstructionist governments and others that harm reduction is incompatible with treaty obligations.
Yet in spite of this broad and ever increasing support, CND – through its self-imposed ‘consensus at all costs’ working method – perpetuates a system that enables even a single government to block harm reduction language in its resolutions, and now in the Political Declaration. This now creates a situation where UNODC – the lead organisation on HIV and injecting drug use within the UNAIDS family – now has a governing board that refuses to support harm reduction measures. This is a problem that must be addressed.
It is inconceivable and indeed unconscionable that support for scientifically proven, evidence-based harm reduction programmes have again be blocked. States must show responsible leadership and act in the best interests of public health and human rights, rather than the narrow and failed language of ‘a drug free world’. In this regard, we commend the leadership demonstrated by the 26 countries who supported the declarative statement supporting harm reduction at the High Level Segment last week.
Mr Chair, this issue is much bigger than ideology, semantics and intergovernmental wordplay.
It is about saving lives.
Thank you.'
'Thank you Mr Chair.
I’m sure I speak on behalf of my two colleagues on my left when I thank you for enabling civil society to participate in today’s session, and ensuring time on the agenda for us to be heard.
I am here today representing the International Harm Reduction Association. Our statement is supported by the Asian Harm Reduction Network, the Caribbean Harm Reduction Coalition, the Eurasian Harm Reduction Network, Intercambios Asosciacion Civil, the Middle East and North Africa Harm Reduction Network, the Sub Saharan Africa Harm Reduction Network, the Canadian Harm Reduction Network, Colectivo por Una Politica Integral Hacia las Drogas, the Harm Reduction Coalition in the US, the International Network of People who Use Drugs, the International Nursing Harm Reduction Network, the Women’s International Harm Reduction Network and YouthRISE.
In June 1998, the United Nations General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) on the World Drug Problem adopted a resolution entitled ‘International action to combat drug abuse and illicit production and trafficking’. Despite the fact that the link between HIV transmission and unsafe injecting drug use was well-known at that time, the UNGASS political declaration was silent on both HIV prevention and on harm reduction.
Today, more than 10 years on from the UNGASS on drugs, it is estimated that 15.9 million people inject drugs in 158 countries and territories around the world. Since the 1998 political declaration was adopted, many regions of the world have experienced an explosion of injecting-driven HIV infection. In some regions, up to 80% of people living with HIV are likely to have acquired the virus through unsafe injecting. In countries as diverse as China, Estonia, India, Kenya, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand and Vietnam, HIV prevalence rates among people who inject drugs reach over 50%.
During this same period, injecting-related hepatitis C infection has remained a major unaddressed health concern, with prevalence rates among injectors reaching as high as 95% in some countries. The vast majority of people who inject drugs in countries as far-ranging as Indonesia, Thailand, Pakistan, Mauritius, Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, Ukraine, Luxembourg and Switzerland are living with hepatitis C. Ultimately, death and disease related to hepatitis C may take a bigger toll on drug injectors than HIV infection.
Last week, a High Level Segment of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) adopted a new Political Declaration on drugs. It was apparent from the negotiations towards agreed language in this Declaration that a small number of countries are prepared to go to extreme lengths to block support for evidence-based, public health led approaches to drug use from appearing in CND resolutions. These obstructionist governments – including the United States, Russia, Japan, Italy and Sweden – blocked any reference to harm reduction in the Declaration, despite the fact that up to 10% of all global HIV infections occur through unsafe injecting drug use (and over 25% of all infections outside Sub-Saharan Africa), and the best evidence suggests that over 3 million people who inject drugs are living with HIV.
CND’s failure to embrace harm reduction, and the continued obstruction of a small number of governments to even non-binding statements of support for harm reduction programmes within the Political Declaration, clearly illustrate the degree to which the Commission is not only out of step with the scientific and medical evidence supporting harm reduction, but is also isolated from the mainstream of UN opinion on this key health policy issue.
Harm reduction is explicitly supported by the UN General Assembly, UNAIDS, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, the World Health Organization, the International Narcotics Control Board, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and others. At least 84 countries around the world explicitly support, or allow the operation of, harm reduction programmes. Moreover, in 2002 the Legal Affairs Section of the UN Drug Control Programme affirmed the legality of harm reduction programmes – including opioid substitution therapy, syringe exchange and safe injecting facilities – under the international drug conventions. This finding authoritatively refutes the continued allegations by obstructionist governments and others that harm reduction is incompatible with treaty obligations.
Yet in spite of this broad and ever increasing support, CND – through its self-imposed ‘consensus at all costs’ working method – perpetuates a system that enables even a single government to block harm reduction language in its resolutions, and now in the Political Declaration. This now creates a situation where UNODC – the lead organisation on HIV and injecting drug use within the UNAIDS family – now has a governing board that refuses to support harm reduction measures. This is a problem that must be addressed.
It is inconceivable and indeed unconscionable that support for scientifically proven, evidence-based harm reduction programmes have again be blocked. States must show responsible leadership and act in the best interests of public health and human rights, rather than the narrow and failed language of ‘a drug free world’. In this regard, we commend the leadership demonstrated by the 26 countries who supported the declarative statement supporting harm reduction at the High Level Segment last week.
Mr Chair, this issue is much bigger than ideology, semantics and intergovernmental wordplay.
It is about saving lives.
Thank you.'
Canada statement on demand reduction
Canada supports school-based programmes and suppprt for local and community initiatives. It supports the creation of national standards. Evaluation is an important element of demand reduction activities. It is important to tailor responses to the needs of different populations of youth.
Canada is enhancing treatment and support services for First Nations and juvenile offenders. Canada welcome the sharing of best practices.
Canada is enhancing treatment and support services for First Nations and juvenile offenders. Canada welcome the sharing of best practices.
Algeria statement on demand reduction
Under a neew law, 'addicts' are a patients in need of care and treatment. If they turn themselves in, they are protected from prosecution.
Algeria has established 15 detox centres. 5600 'addicts' treated in 2008.
Training has been provided to to 158 doctors and psychiatrists.
Algeria conducts anti-drugs media campaigns, and is currently doing school surveys of drug use.
Algeria has established 15 detox centres. 5600 'addicts' treated in 2008.
Training has been provided to to 158 doctors and psychiatrists.
Algeria conducts anti-drugs media campaigns, and is currently doing school surveys of drug use.
Russian Federation statement on demand reduction
Russia expresses concern at volume of drugs coming into the country from Afghanistan.
Russia established a state counter-narcotics committee which includes law enforcement, health, education, sports and others. Nrcotcs addiction is a 'socially significant disease'.
Harm reduction distracts states' attention that would otherwise be spent on drug demand reduction. Russia supports Japan's position on harm reduction.
Must ensure the rights of addicts. Russia is developing alternatives to prison for minor .
Russia established a state counter-narcotics committee which includes law enforcement, health, education, sports and others. Nrcotcs addiction is a 'socially significant disease'.
Harm reduction distracts states' attention that would otherwise be spent on drug demand reduction. Russia supports Japan's position on harm reduction.
Must ensure the rights of addicts. Russia is developing alternatives to prison for minor .
Mexico statement on demand reduction
Mexico is setting up network of services to make treatment available to hard to reach communities (329 centres).
National addiction survey shows age of first consumption is falling. It also shows an increase in the use of drugs by young women, which poses challenges in making gender specific programmes.
National addiction survey shows age of first consumption is falling. It also shows an increase in the use of drugs by young women, which poses challenges in making gender specific programmes.
Argentina statement on demand reduction
Argentina's national plan is based on preventive policy focusing on the family community, the school community and the workplace community.
There are high levels of cannabis use (6.9% of the population has used cannabis in last 12 months). Cocaine is second only to the US in cocaine consumption. Paco (coca paste) also a problem. It is inexpensive (30 cents per dose) and used by the poorest members of society.
Argentina is concerned of use of harm reduction as a 'political football' at CND.
There are high levels of cannabis use (6.9% of the population has used cannabis in last 12 months). Cocaine is second only to the US in cocaine consumption. Paco (coca paste) also a problem. It is inexpensive (30 cents per dose) and used by the poorest members of society.
Argentina is concerned of use of harm reduction as a 'political football' at CND.
Libya statement on demand reduction
Libya's demand reduction focuses on young people, primarily via school programmes. Drug users have 'access to full range of services provided by the state'.
Saudi Arabia on demand reduction
Saudi Arabia uses school based education and media campaigns as part of its demand reduction activities.
Italy statement on demand reduction
Italy has taken 'and extremely firm stance' against drug use. It follows three principles
1. It is illegal. There is no right to use
2. All narcotics are equally damaging and danegerous
3. Addicts must always be seen as persons who can be brought back to normal like, so focus must be to 'liberate addicts'.
1. It is illegal. There is no right to use
2. All narcotics are equally damaging and danegerous
3. Addicts must always be seen as persons who can be brought back to normal like, so focus must be to 'liberate addicts'.
Austria statement on demand reduction
Austria welcomes the Political Declaration.
Austria has a comprehensive drug demand reduction policy, and follows a diverse approach. Harm reduction and OST has increased. OST is 'an integral part' of the services offered. There is also a strong focus on rehabilitation and social reintegration
The prevention of blood-borne viruses has been a central health policy issue for many years. The HIV infection rate been significantly reduced. Currently, HCV rates among injecting drug users are up to 63%, and HBV at 22%. NEP, safer sex, HBV vaccination are part if the approach. Condoms, disinfectants and OST are available in prison.
Austria welcomes AIDS 2010 which will be held in Vienna.
Austria has a comprehensive drug demand reduction policy, and follows a diverse approach. Harm reduction and OST has increased. OST is 'an integral part' of the services offered. There is also a strong focus on rehabilitation and social reintegration
The prevention of blood-borne viruses has been a central health policy issue for many years. The HIV infection rate been significantly reduced. Currently, HCV rates among injecting drug users are up to 63%, and HBV at 22%. NEP, safer sex, HBV vaccination are part if the approach. Condoms, disinfectants and OST are available in prison.
Austria welcomes AIDS 2010 which will be held in Vienna.
United States statement on demand reduction
US has made progress. There has been a 25% reduction in youth drug use since 2001 according to annual school drug survey. Increases have been recorded in 18-26 year old age group.
Addiction is a disease and 'must be addressed as a public health issue'. NIDA conducts 85% of world's research on drug use. NIDA working on immumization trials for cocaine and Methamphetaime.
US will be adopting needle exchange which will make a contribution to addressing HIV.
The US is proud to be a leader in working towards universal access.
The federal counter-narcotics budget is 13 billion dollars.
Screening and brief intervention system used to detect early drug use. The government provides matching funds to local anti-drug groups, totalling 800 grants in 769 communities.
The government supports drug courts.
It supports school-based prevention programmes and broad media campaigns
Increasing evidence of prescription drug misuse.
Addiction is a disease and 'must be addressed as a public health issue'. NIDA conducts 85% of world's research on drug use. NIDA working on immumization trials for cocaine and Methamphetaime.
US will be adopting needle exchange which will make a contribution to addressing HIV.
The US is proud to be a leader in working towards universal access.
The federal counter-narcotics budget is 13 billion dollars.
Screening and brief intervention system used to detect early drug use. The government provides matching funds to local anti-drug groups, totalling 800 grants in 769 communities.
The government supports drug courts.
It supports school-based prevention programmes and broad media campaigns
Increasing evidence of prescription drug misuse.
Indonesia statement on demand reduction
There are 3 million drug users in Indonesia. 47% are 'addicts'. 15% injecting drug users and 85% non-injecting drug users. Cannabis most widely used illicit drug (70% of illicit use). There are concerns at increase of ATS use, and ATS now a bigger concern than opiates. Heroin use is stabilising and to a certain extent decreasing. Addressing ATS is the big issue. Effective drug demand reduction staratgies must be evidence based.
Nigeria statement on demand reduction
Cannabis is linked to over 70% of drug related psychiatric admissions. A new awareness campaign was launched in 2008 - Commitment to a drug free Nigeria. Training on demand reduction strategies has been done for officers. Drug education has been initiated in schools.
Treatment and rehabilitation "have been given priority attention", and there is a need for upgrading of treatment centres.
Cannabis most used drug. Misuse of prescription drugs also identified as a concern. Studies have revealed problems with solvent use in some parts of the country. There is a need for a national survey of drug use.
Treatment and rehabilitation "have been given priority attention", and there is a need for upgrading of treatment centres.
Cannabis most used drug. Misuse of prescription drugs also identified as a concern. Studies have revealed problems with solvent use in some parts of the country. There is a need for a national survey of drug use.
China statement on demand reduction
China has adopted various measures to curb heroin use, including education and media campaigns. It take a 'multi-faceted' approach to drug treatment, which include community treatment, compulsory treatment and maintenance programmes. There are currently 70 rehabilitation centres for opium users and 600 methadone clinics. The number of new heroin users reduced and stabilised, and HIV infection via injecting drug use has dropped.
Turkey statement on demand reduction
Turkey supports non-confrontational education campaigns, but these campaigns must create a negative impression of drugs in society.
Demand reduction is often neglected by the attention given to supply reduction and trafficking. Where there is demand there will always be supply. Turkey’s demand reduction approach emphasises primary prevention as well as treatment for drug users.
Turkey’s policy considers drug addiction an illness that should be treated.
Turkey has concerns where harm reduction becomes a political issue rather than a technical one.
UNODC should concentrate more on global demand reduction.
Demand reduction is often neglected by the attention given to supply reduction and trafficking. Where there is demand there will always be supply. Turkey’s demand reduction approach emphasises primary prevention as well as treatment for drug users.
Turkey’s policy considers drug addiction an illness that should be treated.
Turkey has concerns where harm reduction becomes a political issue rather than a technical one.
UNODC should concentrate more on global demand reduction.
Columbia statement on drug demand reduction
The shared responsbility campaign is aimed as a matter of urgency to the international community. If conusmers of cocaine throughout the world were aware of the damage relating to cultivation to meet this demand then they would think again about consuming the drug.
Recently colombia has conducted a home-based survey. It found that 86% of people have consumed alcohol at least once and 35% do so habitually. 9.1% had consumed drugs and 2.7% had done so in the last month. The research showed that 15,400 people had conusmed illicit drugs in the last month. Cannabiss is the most consumed drug in Colombia, followed by cocaine and ecstacy.
Our policy is to reduce the prevelance of consumption and mitigate the negaitve impact on individuals, families and society. We provide treamtent, rehabilitation and social inclusion for those who have become dependent.
We have seen some progress. We have prevention programmes in schools and in the workplace and have achieved good coverage. We have a media strategy and since 2006, have had a national information line which receives 15,000 calls per day. We also have a national programme to mitigate the impact of drugs on society.
We have minimum standards for our treatment centres. We want to improve public health without criminalising drug use. We are certainly not trying to legalise and we wish to respect the rights of indiviudals.
Recently colombia has conducted a home-based survey. It found that 86% of people have consumed alcohol at least once and 35% do so habitually. 9.1% had consumed drugs and 2.7% had done so in the last month. The research showed that 15,400 people had conusmed illicit drugs in the last month. Cannabiss is the most consumed drug in Colombia, followed by cocaine and ecstacy.
Our policy is to reduce the prevelance of consumption and mitigate the negaitve impact on individuals, families and society. We provide treamtent, rehabilitation and social inclusion for those who have become dependent.
We have seen some progress. We have prevention programmes in schools and in the workplace and have achieved good coverage. We have a media strategy and since 2006, have had a national information line which receives 15,000 calls per day. We also have a national programme to mitigate the impact of drugs on society.
We have minimum standards for our treatment centres. We want to improve public health without criminalising drug use. We are certainly not trying to legalise and we wish to respect the rights of indiviudals.
Sri Lankan statement on drug demand reduction
We are interested in the rehabilitation and re-integration of drug users into society. We do not treat the drug abuser as a criminal anymore, instead we look at them as people who need treatment.
We believe that drug demand does not depend on a biological or phyiscal need, it is simply a psychological dependence. Sri Lanka has also started treatment for alcoholism.
This morning the presentation included mention of harm reduction, but this did not include substitution and needle exchange and I was pleased by this. We do not believe in substitution as it just moves the abuser from one drug to another. Since the commencement of our treatment programme, our success rate is 25%. We are trying hard to increase this number. Over the last 25 years our number of addicts has not increased. Numbers have remained static and are very slowly coming down.
Abstinence is the theroetical basis of our approach.
We believe that drug demand does not depend on a biological or phyiscal need, it is simply a psychological dependence. Sri Lanka has also started treatment for alcoholism.
This morning the presentation included mention of harm reduction, but this did not include substitution and needle exchange and I was pleased by this. We do not believe in substitution as it just moves the abuser from one drug to another. Since the commencement of our treatment programme, our success rate is 25%. We are trying hard to increase this number. Over the last 25 years our number of addicts has not increased. Numbers have remained static and are very slowly coming down.
Abstinence is the theroetical basis of our approach.
Iranian statement on drug demand reduction
There are 1.2 million addicts in Iran. We have taken considerable measures to reduce drug use and its related harms in our country.
We encourage addicts to go to treatment. We financially support them to do so and offer free counselling.
Our drug policy focuses on preliminary prevention, the changing of consumption patterns, collaboration with the private sector and NGOs (of which there are 700 involved in this work in Iran), diversification of treatment systems and HIV prevention methods.
Since 2005, HIV prevalence among injecting drug users has remained stable in Iran.
We encourage addicts to go to treatment. We financially support them to do so and offer free counselling.
Our drug policy focuses on preliminary prevention, the changing of consumption patterns, collaboration with the private sector and NGOs (of which there are 700 involved in this work in Iran), diversification of treatment systems and HIV prevention methods.
Since 2005, HIV prevalence among injecting drug users has remained stable in Iran.
Lebanon statement on drug demand reduction
Drug demand reduction is very important. In Lebanon, we prioritise preventive education to raise awareness so that people do not use drugs. We target schools and wider society through media, press and direct communication. The second stage in education is to target drug users who cannot stop using drugs. We encourage them to go to health and treatment centres.
We deal with drug users very seriously and they can be subjected to penalties of up to three years in prison. The drug user is also an unhealthy and sick person and in need of treatment. We encourage drug users to go to treatment, so as not to go to prison. If he or she relapses, they are sent to prison.
With regards to human rights, we observe all human rights instruments, but we wonder what would we do if drug users did not voluntarity seek treatment. We would arrest the drug user and make them enter treatment.
We deal with drug users very seriously and they can be subjected to penalties of up to three years in prison. The drug user is also an unhealthy and sick person and in need of treatment. We encourage drug users to go to treatment, so as not to go to prison. If he or she relapses, they are sent to prison.
With regards to human rights, we observe all human rights instruments, but we wonder what would we do if drug users did not voluntarity seek treatment. We would arrest the drug user and make them enter treatment.
Netherlands statement on drug demand reduction
The Netherlands associates itself with the European Union statement presented earlier by the Czech Republic.
Ten years of UNGASS have told us that a balanced response is essential. However, for the right balance, more investment in drug demand reduction is necessary.
The drugs market is fluctuating and ever-changing and it requires a flexible, innovative and creative approach. An evidence-based approach is necessary.
The drug strategy of the Netherlands has three key principles: prevention, treatment and harm reduction.
Preventing is better than curing.
Curing is better than harm redution.
Harm reduction is better than doing nothing.
Prevention is of paramount importance, but it is not a panacea. The Netherlands has a good system for treatment, care and rehabilitation. We have invested heavily in abstinence-based treamtent. We would like to emphasise the importance of a humane and ethical approach in drug treatment. However, we know that there is often a very high relapse rate and so our responsibility does not stop short at offering treatment. We also have a responsibility to limit the consequences for individuals, families and society.
We should limit the risks associated with drug use as much as possible. Last week at the High Level Segment, discussion on harm reduction caused great debate. Harm reduction is about saving lives, not about legalising drugs. We know this approach works, especially in preventing HIV among people who inject drugs. As UNODC, WHO and UNAIDS have pointed out, a comprehensive package including needle and syringe exchange and opioid substitution therapy is the most effective method of preventing HIV.
Ten years of UNGASS have told us that a balanced response is essential. However, for the right balance, more investment in drug demand reduction is necessary.
The drugs market is fluctuating and ever-changing and it requires a flexible, innovative and creative approach. An evidence-based approach is necessary.
The drug strategy of the Netherlands has three key principles: prevention, treatment and harm reduction.
Preventing is better than curing.
Curing is better than harm redution.
Harm reduction is better than doing nothing.
Prevention is of paramount importance, but it is not a panacea. The Netherlands has a good system for treatment, care and rehabilitation. We have invested heavily in abstinence-based treamtent. We would like to emphasise the importance of a humane and ethical approach in drug treatment. However, we know that there is often a very high relapse rate and so our responsibility does not stop short at offering treatment. We also have a responsibility to limit the consequences for individuals, families and society.
We should limit the risks associated with drug use as much as possible. Last week at the High Level Segment, discussion on harm reduction caused great debate. Harm reduction is about saving lives, not about legalising drugs. We know this approach works, especially in preventing HIV among people who inject drugs. As UNODC, WHO and UNAIDS have pointed out, a comprehensive package including needle and syringe exchange and opioid substitution therapy is the most effective method of preventing HIV.
Singapore statement on drug demand reduction
Despite the common drug problem we face, we are all bound by our cultural and social uniqueness, so will choose to respond in differing ways.
Singapore's anti-drug strategy includes both supply and demand reduction. This includes an integrated approach of tough legislation, vigorous enforcement, rehabilitation and aftercare.
We recognise the importance of drug prevention. Treatment and rehabilitation are also major tools in combating drugs. People using drugs are initiated into treatment programmes instead of going to prison, which means they avoid the stigma of a criminal record. Education is a key part of our rehabilitation programmes. Treatment and rehabilitation are also provided by community organisations using a variety of models.
In 2002, doctors began prescribing buprenorphine for opioid dependence. However, addicts began using it intravenously, often mixed with sleeping pills. This introduced injecting drug use to Singapore, which had previously low levels of injecting. The government responded by scehduling buprenorphine as a controlled drug in 2006.
Every state has the right to choose their own response to the drug problem. We respect this diversity and difference.
Singapore's anti-drug strategy includes both supply and demand reduction. This includes an integrated approach of tough legislation, vigorous enforcement, rehabilitation and aftercare.
We recognise the importance of drug prevention. Treatment and rehabilitation are also major tools in combating drugs. People using drugs are initiated into treatment programmes instead of going to prison, which means they avoid the stigma of a criminal record. Education is a key part of our rehabilitation programmes. Treatment and rehabilitation are also provided by community organisations using a variety of models.
In 2002, doctors began prescribing buprenorphine for opioid dependence. However, addicts began using it intravenously, often mixed with sleeping pills. This introduced injecting drug use to Singapore, which had previously low levels of injecting. The government responded by scehduling buprenorphine as a controlled drug in 2006.
Every state has the right to choose their own response to the drug problem. We respect this diversity and difference.
Thai statement on drug demand reduction
Thailand has a national strategy which includes drug demand reduction, drug prevention, treatment and measures to reduce consequences of drug use.
Drug addicts need treatment and rehabilitation. They are treated differently to suppliers.
Thailand uses both voluntary and compulsory treatment. Some compulsory treatment occurs in military camps, which are also called 'personal development camps'. This approach provides an alternative to prison and is a diversion programme for drug offences. Thailand initiated an accrediation process for its treatment services in 2006.
Thailand has included harm reduction in its response to drugs for ten years. NGOs provide needle and syringe exchange in Thailand. The government collaborates with NGOs on this issue. There will be an evidence-based harm reduction strategy produced later this year.
Drug addicts need treatment and rehabilitation. They are treated differently to suppliers.
Thailand uses both voluntary and compulsory treatment. Some compulsory treatment occurs in military camps, which are also called 'personal development camps'. This approach provides an alternative to prison and is a diversion programme for drug offences. Thailand initiated an accrediation process for its treatment services in 2006.
Thailand has included harm reduction in its response to drugs for ten years. NGOs provide needle and syringe exchange in Thailand. The government collaborates with NGOs on this issue. There will be an evidence-based harm reduction strategy produced later this year.
India statement on drug demand reduction
India is a signatory to the three drug conventions. It accepts drug demand reduction as an indespensible pillar of a comprehensive drug strategy.
In India, services for drug addiction are provided mainly provided by NGOs and supported by the government. Services have been increased in recent years and amongst the services provided are counselling, treatment, rehabilitation and social re-integration.
A drug abuse monitoring system has recently been established which collects information from treatment centres. India produced a manual on minimum standards for treatment services in 2001.
An advisory group for the government on drug demand reduction has been established, including representatives from various government departments and NGOs.
The government has also organised training workshops on drug demand reduction for SAARC member countries.
In India, services for drug addiction are provided mainly provided by NGOs and supported by the government. Services have been increased in recent years and amongst the services provided are counselling, treatment, rehabilitation and social re-integration.
A drug abuse monitoring system has recently been established which collects information from treatment centres. India produced a manual on minimum standards for treatment services in 2001.
An advisory group for the government on drug demand reduction has been established, including representatives from various government departments and NGOs.
The government has also organised training workshops on drug demand reduction for SAARC member countries.
Norway statement on drug demand reduction
The availability of illicit drugs is a concern for all. Norway uses both a supply and a drug demand reduction approach in its response.
The cannabis problem seems to have grown in the shadow of heroin and ATS. We have all the evidence of harmful effects of cannabis use and we need to address this problem.
Giving drug users the right to health does not mean we want to legalise drugs. Ensuring availaility of a range of harm reduction strategies is important alongside with treatment options.
Norway supports the inclusion of harm reduction in UNODC's work.
In addressing HIV/AIDS, Norway stresses the importance of a rights-based approach, the involvement of people living with HIV, reaching vulnerable groups such as sex workers and injecting drug users and the scale up of services.
The cannabis problem seems to have grown in the shadow of heroin and ATS. We have all the evidence of harmful effects of cannabis use and we need to address this problem.
Giving drug users the right to health does not mean we want to legalise drugs. Ensuring availaility of a range of harm reduction strategies is important alongside with treatment options.
Norway supports the inclusion of harm reduction in UNODC's work.
In addressing HIV/AIDS, Norway stresses the importance of a rights-based approach, the involvement of people living with HIV, reaching vulnerable groups such as sex workers and injecting drug users and the scale up of services.
Pakistan statement on drug demand reduction
Drug demand and drug supply have a direct bearing on each other. The main concern in Pakistan has been poppy cultivation. A focus on this issue has now resulted in 3 out of 4 provinces becoming poppy free. The hope is that Pakistan will be a poppy free country this year, as they were in 2001.
Pakistan has almost finalised its drug 'masterplan' which masterplan which will cover the next five years and provide a roadmap for a comprehensive plan including both law enforcement and rehabilitation.
Pakistan has almost finalised its drug 'masterplan' which masterplan which will cover the next five years and provide a roadmap for a comprehensive plan including both law enforcement and rehabilitation.
Japanese statement on drug demand reduction
Japan takes a zero tolerance approach to drugs. The policy is to severely punish drug abuse, including first time use. Japan can be drug free.
The government promotes various prevention programmes nationwide which reach people in schools and at home. They work in close collaboration with international organisations. Prevention and public awareness of drug abuse is the foremost priority, followed by treatment for drug dependence. Harm reduction is not an appropriate measure to take against drug addiction.
The government promotes various prevention programmes nationwide which reach people in schools and at home. They work in close collaboration with international organisations. Prevention and public awareness of drug abuse is the foremost priority, followed by treatment for drug dependence. Harm reduction is not an appropriate measure to take against drug addiction.
CND Day 3: EU statement on Drug Demand Reduction
The statement from the European Union (EU) was presented by the delegation of the Czech Republic.
The EU is firmly committed to reducing drug demand around the world. The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) report that overall drug use is stablisiing in Europe. It is not increasing and there are some downward trends. However, there is an overall increase in cocaine use, which is reflected in treatment data. There is a need for further reserach on measures to address cocaine dependence as this issue is critical.
Drug demand reduction represents a key element in the EU drug strategy and action plan for the period of 2009-2012. The 2009-2012 strategy and action plan build on work from previous years and include a focus on the following areas:
- To further prevent or delay the first use of drugs and risks associated with it.
- To prevent high risk behaviours of drug users, including injection
- To enhance effectiveness of drug treatment and rehabilitation
- To enhance quality of drug demand reduction interventions
- To develop and implement harm reduction services in prison
- To ensure access to harm reduction services in order to reduce the spread of HIV, HCV and to reduce the number of drug related deaths
The EU stresses the role and commitment of NGOs in the area of drug demand reduction.
The EU is fully committed to achieving universal access to HIV prevention, treatment care and support by 2010. The EU reiterates the role of international organisations in helping to shape and coordinate drug demand reduction responses worldwide.
The EU is firmly committed to reducing drug demand around the world. The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) report that overall drug use is stablisiing in Europe. It is not increasing and there are some downward trends. However, there is an overall increase in cocaine use, which is reflected in treatment data. There is a need for further reserach on measures to address cocaine dependence as this issue is critical.
Drug demand reduction represents a key element in the EU drug strategy and action plan for the period of 2009-2012. The 2009-2012 strategy and action plan build on work from previous years and include a focus on the following areas:
- To further prevent or delay the first use of drugs and risks associated with it.
- To prevent high risk behaviours of drug users, including injection
- To enhance effectiveness of drug treatment and rehabilitation
- To enhance quality of drug demand reduction interventions
- To develop and implement harm reduction services in prison
- To ensure access to harm reduction services in order to reduce the spread of HIV, HCV and to reduce the number of drug related deaths
The EU stresses the role and commitment of NGOs in the area of drug demand reduction.
The EU is fully committed to achieving universal access to HIV prevention, treatment care and support by 2010. The EU reiterates the role of international organisations in helping to shape and coordinate drug demand reduction responses worldwide.
CND Day 3 - Human Rights Watch statement to the plenary
Below is the text of Rebecca Schleifer's statement to the CND plenary on behalf of Human Rights Watch.
'Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I am making this statement on behalf of Human Rights Watch.
We appreciate the commitment in last week’s political declaration to comprehensive drug demand reduction programs and evidence-based drug treatment. Such an approach is entirely consistent with international human rights norms.
In our research, however, we have found that drug treatment practices in many countries are, in fact, not based in evidence and violate human rights.
In some countries people who use drugs are forced into compulsory treatment programs without any form of due process or trial, sometimes for months or even years.
These programs often provide treatment that has no basis in scientific evidence; they are often run by military or public security offices; and they are staffed by people who have no medical training.
The treatment provided often consists of forced labor, psychological and moral re-education, and in some cases includes shackling, caging and caning.
In many countries, people who voluntarily seek treatment also face such abuses.
Let me give you some examples:
In Thailand, thousands of people have been arbitrarily forced into "drug treatment" centers run by security forces. Many are held for extended periods of time.
We appreciate China’s efforts to increase community-based drug rehabilitation programs. Notwithstanding, in China, as many as 350,000 people are interned in mandatory drug-detoxification and "re-education through labor" centers, where they can be held without due process for up to three years. Treatment consists of forced labor, and repeating slogans like "drug use is bad, I am bad."
In Singapore, according to a government report distributed here this week, drug users can be arbitrarily detained for extended periods of time for drug use, and caned if they relapse – even though relapse is a common symptom of recovery. Singapore has also banned buprenorphine, one of the most effective treatments for opioid dependence, and is now jailing people for using it.
These approaches to drug treatment have no basis in science. There is also clear evidence that they have detrimental consequences for the health and human rights of drug users.
The Commission on Narcotic Drugs should take action to stop human rights abuses committed in the name of drug treatment, and to strengthen collaboration with UN human rights agencies. Last year’s human rights resolution was a good start but much more has to be done. We hope next year’s report on the implementation of the resolution will report progress in UN system-wide efforts to end abusive drug treatment practices, and more broadly to ensure human rights as a central part of drug policy.'
'Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I am making this statement on behalf of Human Rights Watch.
We appreciate the commitment in last week’s political declaration to comprehensive drug demand reduction programs and evidence-based drug treatment. Such an approach is entirely consistent with international human rights norms.
In our research, however, we have found that drug treatment practices in many countries are, in fact, not based in evidence and violate human rights.
In some countries people who use drugs are forced into compulsory treatment programs without any form of due process or trial, sometimes for months or even years.
These programs often provide treatment that has no basis in scientific evidence; they are often run by military or public security offices; and they are staffed by people who have no medical training.
The treatment provided often consists of forced labor, psychological and moral re-education, and in some cases includes shackling, caging and caning.
In many countries, people who voluntarily seek treatment also face such abuses.
Let me give you some examples:
In Thailand, thousands of people have been arbitrarily forced into "drug treatment" centers run by security forces. Many are held for extended periods of time.
We appreciate China’s efforts to increase community-based drug rehabilitation programs. Notwithstanding, in China, as many as 350,000 people are interned in mandatory drug-detoxification and "re-education through labor" centers, where they can be held without due process for up to three years. Treatment consists of forced labor, and repeating slogans like "drug use is bad, I am bad."
In Singapore, according to a government report distributed here this week, drug users can be arbitrarily detained for extended periods of time for drug use, and caned if they relapse – even though relapse is a common symptom of recovery. Singapore has also banned buprenorphine, one of the most effective treatments for opioid dependence, and is now jailing people for using it.
These approaches to drug treatment have no basis in science. There is also clear evidence that they have detrimental consequences for the health and human rights of drug users.
The Commission on Narcotic Drugs should take action to stop human rights abuses committed in the name of drug treatment, and to strengthen collaboration with UN human rights agencies. Last year’s human rights resolution was a good start but much more has to be done. We hope next year’s report on the implementation of the resolution will report progress in UN system-wide efforts to end abusive drug treatment practices, and more broadly to ensure human rights as a central part of drug policy.'
Tuesday, 17 March 2009
CND DAY 2 - COW: Resolution on Strengthening the Law Enforcement Capacity of the Main Transit States Neighbouring Afghanistan
The Second Resolution considered by the Committee of the Whole at CND this morning was the draft resolution submitted by the Islamic Republic of Iran on 'strengthening the law enforcement capacity of the main transit states neighbouring Afghanistan, based on the principle of shared responsibility'.
The resolution was a triangular initiative of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan following lengthy informal negotiations by those delegations and the discussion began with promising support for the resolution with G77 and China expressing their support for the resolution. Iran expressed its hope that 'through the joint operation between these three states the main traffickers can be captured, seizures of drugs will be increased, and the whole world will benefit'.
A small amendment was made so that joint operations would be conducted only within the borders (and not across borders) of the cooperating states.
The discussion also highlighted the problem of precursor chemicals being brought into Afghanistan from neighbouring states which go to produce the heroin so that the neighbouring states are not only transit posts, but also trafficking bases and that this needed to be recognised and addressed.
A lengthy negotiation ensued on whether to expressly recall and commend the good work of many regional and sub regional organisations and whether to appreciate the forthcoming international event on March 27th 2009 special conference in Afghanistan, at the initiative of the Russian Government. The final text is to be open ended so as to include all the above.
The final debate focussed upon whether to explicitly recognise and or restate the United Nations Security Council Resolution on Precursor Control - this was resisted by Iran and Pakistan but promoted by the United Kingdom and others. It appears that the following broad compromise language was accepted ‘notes that the commission on narcotic drugs has been invited to consider, in accordance with its mandate, ways to strengthen regional and international cooperation to prevent the diversion and smuggling of chemical precursors to and within afganistan, and further opportunities for member states to support the afgan government in developing capacities to tackle precursors and trafficking.' Again, however, the final text of the resolution is yet to be distributed by the UNODC secretariat.
The debate has now moved to the draft resolution of Ethiopia on international support to states in East Africa in their efforts to combat drug trafficking'. The blog will be updated as the discussions progress.
The resolution was a triangular initiative of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan following lengthy informal negotiations by those delegations and the discussion began with promising support for the resolution with G77 and China expressing their support for the resolution. Iran expressed its hope that 'through the joint operation between these three states the main traffickers can be captured, seizures of drugs will be increased, and the whole world will benefit'.
A small amendment was made so that joint operations would be conducted only within the borders (and not across borders) of the cooperating states.
The discussion also highlighted the problem of precursor chemicals being brought into Afghanistan from neighbouring states which go to produce the heroin so that the neighbouring states are not only transit posts, but also trafficking bases and that this needed to be recognised and addressed.
A lengthy negotiation ensued on whether to expressly recall and commend the good work of many regional and sub regional organisations and whether to appreciate the forthcoming international event on March 27th 2009 special conference in Afghanistan, at the initiative of the Russian Government. The final text is to be open ended so as to include all the above.
The final debate focussed upon whether to explicitly recognise and or restate the United Nations Security Council Resolution on Precursor Control - this was resisted by Iran and Pakistan but promoted by the United Kingdom and others. It appears that the following broad compromise language was accepted ‘notes that the commission on narcotic drugs has been invited to consider, in accordance with its mandate, ways to strengthen regional and international cooperation to prevent the diversion and smuggling of chemical precursors to and within afganistan, and further opportunities for member states to support the afgan government in developing capacities to tackle precursors and trafficking.' Again, however, the final text of the resolution is yet to be distributed by the UNODC secretariat.
The debate has now moved to the draft resolution of Ethiopia on international support to states in East Africa in their efforts to combat drug trafficking'. The blog will be updated as the discussions progress.
CND Day 2 - COW: Resolution on International Cooperation to Address the Role of Women and Girls as Drug Couriers
The morning session of the Committee of the Whole of the CND which is the forum for negotiating the text and adoption of state sponsored resolutions began today by continuing the debate on the resolution of Namibia and the African Group on the use of women and girls as couriers - E/CN.7/2009/L.7
Ecuador introduced a new aspect to the debate suggesting that the resolution should include an urge upon Member States and to develop and the UNODC to assist with the development of 'preventive' alernative development because it is these development issues which cause women and girls to become involved in trafficking activities in the first place.
Switzerland suggested that it might be premature to include such a commitment when we do not know yet the extent of the problem. The USA then suggested, in the words of the chairman 'diluting' the phrase so that it read ‘in developing and implementing such programmes including inter alia preventative alternative development as appropriate.'
Ecuador was concerned and made an intervention that 'the first kind of text makes sure that vulnerable sections of the population do not get involved in drug trafficking. We are not asking for funding, we are not asking for extra budget. I don’t think ‘as appropriate’ has a place here. Mexico has accepted the phrase ‘including preventive, alternative development’ for a specific reason – in that country, these programmes are not implemeneted but further than that i don’t think we need more caveats. As for the Swiss proposal i do agree with you that broad based programmes are not sufficient and the language we agreed on earlier seems clearer and more to the point - we must take measures that women or children are not involved in drug trafficking. We must also say something about sustainable economic development and programme. I don’t know if USA could accept that. If they could, we could go along with 'as appropriate'.
The Chairperson noted that this debate was reminscent of the debate for the political declaration and action plan. The US then conceded 'bearing in mind that this language had been approved in other places' the first compromise of Ecuador.
The other debates which remained from yesterday were also resolved. It was resolved that the resolution will speak to 'women and girls' specifically, rather than women and children - as a gender specific emphasis was required with regards to the vulnerability here sought to be addressed.
The budgetary issue was solved by the following compromise operative paragraph: 'the CND requests UNODC to carry out scientific research and analysis on existing information and statistical data as collected from member states on activities related to illicit drug trafficking in which women and girls are involved at national and international levels'. This means that the Member States will contribute the information and the UNODC will only be responsible for the carrying out of the analysis and thereby not incur further costs. The result is that the reporting requirement for the implementation of this resolution remains the fify fourth session of the CND as per the original draft.
The chapeau to the resolution was finalised as ‘promoting international co-operation in addressing the involvement of women and girls in drug trafficking, especially as couriers.’
The final and full text of the agreed resolution is yet to be published by the UNODC but should come out shortly
Ecuador introduced a new aspect to the debate suggesting that the resolution should include an urge upon Member States and to develop and the UNODC to assist with the development of 'preventive' alernative development because it is these development issues which cause women and girls to become involved in trafficking activities in the first place.
Switzerland suggested that it might be premature to include such a commitment when we do not know yet the extent of the problem. The USA then suggested, in the words of the chairman 'diluting' the phrase so that it read ‘in developing and implementing such programmes including inter alia preventative alternative development as appropriate.'
Ecuador was concerned and made an intervention that 'the first kind of text makes sure that vulnerable sections of the population do not get involved in drug trafficking. We are not asking for funding, we are not asking for extra budget. I don’t think ‘as appropriate’ has a place here. Mexico has accepted the phrase ‘including preventive, alternative development’ for a specific reason – in that country, these programmes are not implemeneted but further than that i don’t think we need more caveats. As for the Swiss proposal i do agree with you that broad based programmes are not sufficient and the language we agreed on earlier seems clearer and more to the point - we must take measures that women or children are not involved in drug trafficking. We must also say something about sustainable economic development and programme. I don’t know if USA could accept that. If they could, we could go along with 'as appropriate'.
The Chairperson noted that this debate was reminscent of the debate for the political declaration and action plan. The US then conceded 'bearing in mind that this language had been approved in other places' the first compromise of Ecuador.
The other debates which remained from yesterday were also resolved. It was resolved that the resolution will speak to 'women and girls' specifically, rather than women and children - as a gender specific emphasis was required with regards to the vulnerability here sought to be addressed.
The budgetary issue was solved by the following compromise operative paragraph: 'the CND requests UNODC to carry out scientific research and analysis on existing information and statistical data as collected from member states on activities related to illicit drug trafficking in which women and girls are involved at national and international levels'. This means that the Member States will contribute the information and the UNODC will only be responsible for the carrying out of the analysis and thereby not incur further costs. The result is that the reporting requirement for the implementation of this resolution remains the fify fourth session of the CND as per the original draft.
The chapeau to the resolution was finalised as ‘promoting international co-operation in addressing the involvement of women and girls in drug trafficking, especially as couriers.’
The final and full text of the agreed resolution is yet to be published by the UNODC but should come out shortly
CND Day 2 Plenary - Thematic debate on data collection for effective drug control
Sandeep Chawla, Chief of the UNODC’s Research Section, began the morning session with a presentation on the current state of data and data collection on the world drug markets. The discussion that followed raised several key issues for data collection and areas of improvement to the current data collection mechanisms.
The need to rationalise UNODC’s data collection systems was raised, in order to limit duplication. Keeping the balance between UNODC as a data gatherer and a reporter and disseminator of global data on drug markets was discussed and it was acknowledged that systems still require further improvements. A need to revisit the indicators used, to consider additions and amendments in order to increase clarity and detail of the information collected. In particular, this may include additional indicators on prices and purities of drugs and adjustments to current measures of drug use.
The key issue of the extent to which UNODC can gather data from non-governmental sources was also discussed. Currently, data is collected through questionnaires to governments which essentially self-report on the national drug market and situation.
The need to rationalise UNODC’s data collection systems was raised, in order to limit duplication. Keeping the balance between UNODC as a data gatherer and a reporter and disseminator of global data on drug markets was discussed and it was acknowledged that systems still require further improvements. A need to revisit the indicators used, to consider additions and amendments in order to increase clarity and detail of the information collected. In particular, this may include additional indicators on prices and purities of drugs and adjustments to current measures of drug use.
The key issue of the extent to which UNODC can gather data from non-governmental sources was also discussed. Currently, data is collected through questionnaires to governments which essentially self-report on the national drug market and situation.
Monday, 16 March 2009
CND Committee of the Whole - Day 1
The Committee of the Whole (COW) sat at the CND today to consider state sponsored resolutions. The COW is the CND forum where states debate and agree the language of the proposed resolutions.
The first and only resolution (partially) considered this afternoon was that of Namibia, and supported by the Africa Group, on 'promoting international cooperation in combating trafficking in drugs, especially the use of women and girls as couriers'.
The discussion, which remains to be finalised, began with whether or not the resolution should be restricted to the role of women as couriers or expanded to their roles as users, producers, manufacturers, and traffickers, more generally - this remains to be finalised.
The discussion then moved on to whether 'women and girls', the original focus of the draft resolution, should be amended to be women and children, or women, alongside men - again, this remains to be finalised and those countries who have tabled the resolution are unwilling at this stage to broaden this out because of the particular vulnerability of women and girls, not least those who are pregnant, to being exploited.
The discussion then moved on to whether asking the UNODC to carry out scientific research and collect information and statistical data on the various drug trafficking activities in which women are involved at the local and international levels and the underlying causes for such conduct and the threats posed by such activities to society was something that would result in budgetary implications. The secretariat was insistent that the money for such research could only derive from more donations to the UNODC rather than it be reallocated from other projects within the general budget of the UNODC. This caused concern amongst some countries as they understood the mandate of the UNODC to be the mandate that it was given by member states. there may be an opportunity, if this work plan is put off for a number of years, for the funds to come out of the general budget, but this debate, which extended almost an hour after the end of the allotted time, is yet to be continued. Another issue that arose from the USA was the unwillingness to mandate unodc to collect information from non-prosecutorial, non-state actors, if member states were not forthcoming as they stated they did not consider such information to be reliable or empirical.
The debate in the COW continues tomorrow.
The first and only resolution (partially) considered this afternoon was that of Namibia, and supported by the Africa Group, on 'promoting international cooperation in combating trafficking in drugs, especially the use of women and girls as couriers'.
The discussion, which remains to be finalised, began with whether or not the resolution should be restricted to the role of women as couriers or expanded to their roles as users, producers, manufacturers, and traffickers, more generally - this remains to be finalised.
The discussion then moved on to whether 'women and girls', the original focus of the draft resolution, should be amended to be women and children, or women, alongside men - again, this remains to be finalised and those countries who have tabled the resolution are unwilling at this stage to broaden this out because of the particular vulnerability of women and girls, not least those who are pregnant, to being exploited.
The discussion then moved on to whether asking the UNODC to carry out scientific research and collect information and statistical data on the various drug trafficking activities in which women are involved at the local and international levels and the underlying causes for such conduct and the threats posed by such activities to society was something that would result in budgetary implications. The secretariat was insistent that the money for such research could only derive from more donations to the UNODC rather than it be reallocated from other projects within the general budget of the UNODC. This caused concern amongst some countries as they understood the mandate of the UNODC to be the mandate that it was given by member states. there may be an opportunity, if this work plan is put off for a number of years, for the funds to come out of the general budget, but this debate, which extended almost an hour after the end of the allotted time, is yet to be continued. Another issue that arose from the USA was the unwillingness to mandate unodc to collect information from non-prosecutorial, non-state actors, if member states were not forthcoming as they stated they did not consider such information to be reliable or empirical.
The debate in the COW continues tomorrow.
Beckley Cannabis Commission Side Event to CND
At a side event to the Commission for Narcotic Drugs, the Beckley Foundation sponsored Global Cannabis Commission outed the elephant in the room as cannabis, the most used narcotic drug and that which props up the international control system.
A review of the evidence on the limited harms and relative harms of cannabis was presented as were the findings of the study that cannabis may be a little more potent now than previously but that the effects of this are confounded by changes in the patterns of use.
A key finding presented was that cannabis control policies, whether liberal or draconian, have little influence on the prevalence of consumption, and have been unable to make the drug prohibitively expensive and that illegal markets worth tens of billions of dollars to organise crime subsist and sustain significant levels of violence in certain countries at the same time as enforcement causing harms to those arrested.
The Commission then suggested various future options for reform - including: prohibition with cautioning or diversion (depenalisation); prohibition with civil penalties (decriminalisation); and partial prohibition - and traced the two approaches by which such reform could be brought about: de facto legalisation and de jure legalisation.
The Commission presented the most straight forward path for individual countries wishing to consider reform as denouncing the international conventions and re-acceding with a reservation for cannabis.
In the discussion which followed, a Ugandan delegate questioned the link between cannabis and hiv aids but the representative from St Lucia, also a practising doctor, explained that there were no increased behavioural risk factors associated with cannabis use that could lead to hiv aids and that although there could be issues of suppressed immune associated with cannabis use, studies were yet to be undertaken, and this was unlikely to be equal, let alone greater, than the link with alcohol use.
Academics presented the findings of their study,
A review of the evidence on the limited harms and relative harms of cannabis was presented as were the findings of the study that cannabis may be a little more potent now than previously but that the effects of this are confounded by changes in the patterns of use.
A key finding presented was that cannabis control policies, whether liberal or draconian, have little influence on the prevalence of consumption, and have been unable to make the drug prohibitively expensive and that illegal markets worth tens of billions of dollars to organise crime subsist and sustain significant levels of violence in certain countries at the same time as enforcement causing harms to those arrested.
The Commission then suggested various future options for reform - including: prohibition with cautioning or diversion (depenalisation); prohibition with civil penalties (decriminalisation); and partial prohibition - and traced the two approaches by which such reform could be brought about: de facto legalisation and de jure legalisation.
The Commission presented the most straight forward path for individual countries wishing to consider reform as denouncing the international conventions and re-acceding with a reservation for cannabis.
In the discussion which followed, a Ugandan delegate questioned the link between cannabis and hiv aids but the representative from St Lucia, also a practising doctor, explained that there were no increased behavioural risk factors associated with cannabis use that could lead to hiv aids and that although there could be issues of suppressed immune associated with cannabis use, studies were yet to be undertaken, and this was unlikely to be equal, let alone greater, than the link with alcohol use.
Academics presented the findings of their study,
Statement of Psicotropicus - Brazilian Drug Policy Center
Distinguished Chairwoman, members of the Commission on Narcotics Drugs and delegates of the Member States, Ladies and Gentlemen,
First we would like to thank the Commission and the delegates of the Member States who are present at this meeting for their wise decision to work in partnership with Civil Society and listen to what it has to say. As non-governmental organizations and mem bers of civil society, we intend to work with you to find a way to overcome the impasse caused by the failure of the goals that were set in the 1998 UNGASS Political Declaration on the World Drug Problem. As part of the endeavor to review the past ten years of this policy, we present the following statement:
Initial Considerations
In the same decade of the 60s, while the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs was approved in Vienna in 1961, the world celebrated, by means of its two first specifically regulatory instruments, the beginning of a new phase in international human rights Law. While the preamble of the 1961 Single Convention states that, in case of certain psychotropic substances, “drug addiction is a [...] social and economic danger to humanity”, Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, declares that “no one shall be subjected to arbitrary or unlawful interference with his privacy, family or home” and that “everyone has the right to protection of the law against such interference or attacks”. While Article 36 of the 1961 Single Convention states that “the possession” and “purchase [...] of a narcotic drug will be considered an offense [...] and that serious infractions will be adequately punished, particularly with a prison sentence or other deprivation of freedom, Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, also adopted in 1966, recognizes “the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health” and declares States Parties’ obligation to achieve “the creation of conditions which would assure to all medical service and medical attention in the event of sickness”.
Even today, after almost forty years of the global “War on Drugs” and ten years after UN General Assembly declared Member States’ determination to eradicate some psychoactive drugs from the world, that same old paradox from the 1960s still persists within the organization that should, above anything else, protect the human rights that ensue from each person’s inherent dignity, as so many of the UN’s regulatory and declaratory documents proclaim. Today, although human rights are the only universal moral consensus of the international society, the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) and most Member States seem to have chosen, at least on the issue of drugs, to blindly and deliberately favor moralizing over ethics, obscurantism over rationality, paternalism over freedom and repression over health.
To expand on this tension we would like to make the following observations:
1. The end of the prohibition of drugs is only a matter of time. But if nothing is done to facilitate the transition from the current repressive model to a tolerant model, the price will be high: the end of prohibition will be the result of the unbearable level of violence and crime that the War on Drugs will have reached. This will result in even greater problems than already exist today in the implementation of public health measures for drug users.
2. Millions of people who have some involvement with drugs are daily persecuted in Brazil and elsewhere in the world. The idea that these people are evil or harmful and should be removed from society or their families is a perverted way of thinking. We can no longer allow this simplistic moralizing to feed the prejudice and stigma that surround these people. We can no longer allow this blind intolerance to transform these people into criminals.
3. Criminalization pushes drug users away from health services, out of fear of discrimination or a fear that they will be reported to the police or receive poor treatment from health care professionals. The criminalization of people who use drugs also hinders the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS and other health conditions, as many new infections occur among people who use drugs. Current drug policy of prohibition is not sound public health policy, including for the prevention of HIV and viral hepatitis. The statement by UNAIDS at last year’s session of the CND made this very clear.
4. Consider as well what drug prohibition does to our young people: when a young person uses an illegal substance, even for the first time, he or she is no longer considered "our most precious asset”, to use the language of the first paragraph of the CND Political Declaration 2009, but instead becomes an enemy who should be persecuted, repressed or imprisoned. The prohibition of drugs is used to weaken and oppress youth.
5. Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in the world. By order of the UN drug conventions, the laws of Member States prohibit the use of marihuana, criminalizing millions of people. A law that is violated by millions of people every single day is a law without moral authority, a meaningless law.
6. The current system of drug control doesn’t actually control anything. Who controls illicit drugs are those who produce, distribute and sell it. The current system has handed the monopoly of these products to the illegal drug industry, more commonly referred to as the drug trade or in Latin America, the “narcotráfico”. Delegates at the international conferences that were held over the course of the last century decided to prohibit certain drugs and plants. They probably had no idea of the violence, misery and destruction that would be caused and continues to be caused by the regime that they were creating.
7. The 1998 UNGASS resolutions to achieve significant quantifiable results in reducing drug supply and demand have not been accomplished. In some regions, such as Latin America, the drug problem has only been exacerbated, as the report from the Latin American Commission on Drugs and Democracy reveals.
Therefore we recommend the following:
1. UNODC should be separated into one agency for drugs and another one for crimes. It doesn’t make any sense to unite both drugs and crime under one agency. This association gives the absurd impression that drugs are criminal by nature, not by human discretion. Furthermore, this association furthers the stigmatization and criminalization of drug users. This should be completely undone. Drug misuse is a health and social problem and should not be subjected to interventions from the criminal justice system.
2. The conventions that rule the UN system of drug control should be revoked. Each Member State should have the freedom to develop its own drug policy, determining in light of domestic conditions the best ways in which to prevent and minimize the adverse health and social consequences of the problematic use of drugs.
3. The new system should encourage this decentralization, respecting the geographic and cultural differences and supporting the way each Member State chooses to deal with the drug industry, recreational and medicinal drugs.
4. The new system should also encourage harm reduction services and approaches as a way to deal with the use and misuse of drugs. Of the existing strategies, harm reduction seems to have the most significant, proven impact on promoting the health of people who use drug and preventing a number of diseases, including HIV and viral hepatitis, and associated social, health and economic consequences.
5. The score of the war on drugs – with all the destruction, violence and misery that it has inflicted on humanity and the environment – needs to be settled. Farmers should be compensated for the financial loss that is the result of forced crop eradication. Their governments and the countries that have interfered in their livelihoods in the name of “the war on drugs” should be held accountable. The negative impact on the economy, the violation of human rights, the displacement of people and poisoning of the soil should be rectified. The negative consequences of the war on drugs on the health of these populations and other vulnerable groups should be compensated.
6. Above all else, the UN system for drug control must be based on respect for fundamental human rights. All drug policies that violate human rights should be denounced.
At this 52nd CND session, we wish that the delegations of the Member States can finally set a new course on drug policy, far from the incomprehensible punitive prohibition that, contrary to what it professes, actually promotes violence and crime, and claims innocent lives.
Thank you.
First we would like to thank the Commission and the delegates of the Member States who are present at this meeting for their wise decision to work in partnership with Civil Society and listen to what it has to say. As non-governmental organizations and mem bers of civil society, we intend to work with you to find a way to overcome the impasse caused by the failure of the goals that were set in the 1998 UNGASS Political Declaration on the World Drug Problem. As part of the endeavor to review the past ten years of this policy, we present the following statement:
Initial Considerations
In the same decade of the 60s, while the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs was approved in Vienna in 1961, the world celebrated, by means of its two first specifically regulatory instruments, the beginning of a new phase in international human rights Law. While the preamble of the 1961 Single Convention states that, in case of certain psychotropic substances, “drug addiction is a [...] social and economic danger to humanity”, Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, declares that “no one shall be subjected to arbitrary or unlawful interference with his privacy, family or home” and that “everyone has the right to protection of the law against such interference or attacks”. While Article 36 of the 1961 Single Convention states that “the possession” and “purchase [...] of a narcotic drug will be considered an offense [...] and that serious infractions will be adequately punished, particularly with a prison sentence or other deprivation of freedom, Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, also adopted in 1966, recognizes “the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health” and declares States Parties’ obligation to achieve “the creation of conditions which would assure to all medical service and medical attention in the event of sickness”.
Even today, after almost forty years of the global “War on Drugs” and ten years after UN General Assembly declared Member States’ determination to eradicate some psychoactive drugs from the world, that same old paradox from the 1960s still persists within the organization that should, above anything else, protect the human rights that ensue from each person’s inherent dignity, as so many of the UN’s regulatory and declaratory documents proclaim. Today, although human rights are the only universal moral consensus of the international society, the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) and most Member States seem to have chosen, at least on the issue of drugs, to blindly and deliberately favor moralizing over ethics, obscurantism over rationality, paternalism over freedom and repression over health.
To expand on this tension we would like to make the following observations:
1. The end of the prohibition of drugs is only a matter of time. But if nothing is done to facilitate the transition from the current repressive model to a tolerant model, the price will be high: the end of prohibition will be the result of the unbearable level of violence and crime that the War on Drugs will have reached. This will result in even greater problems than already exist today in the implementation of public health measures for drug users.
2. Millions of people who have some involvement with drugs are daily persecuted in Brazil and elsewhere in the world. The idea that these people are evil or harmful and should be removed from society or their families is a perverted way of thinking. We can no longer allow this simplistic moralizing to feed the prejudice and stigma that surround these people. We can no longer allow this blind intolerance to transform these people into criminals.
3. Criminalization pushes drug users away from health services, out of fear of discrimination or a fear that they will be reported to the police or receive poor treatment from health care professionals. The criminalization of people who use drugs also hinders the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS and other health conditions, as many new infections occur among people who use drugs. Current drug policy of prohibition is not sound public health policy, including for the prevention of HIV and viral hepatitis. The statement by UNAIDS at last year’s session of the CND made this very clear.
4. Consider as well what drug prohibition does to our young people: when a young person uses an illegal substance, even for the first time, he or she is no longer considered "our most precious asset”, to use the language of the first paragraph of the CND Political Declaration 2009, but instead becomes an enemy who should be persecuted, repressed or imprisoned. The prohibition of drugs is used to weaken and oppress youth.
5. Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in the world. By order of the UN drug conventions, the laws of Member States prohibit the use of marihuana, criminalizing millions of people. A law that is violated by millions of people every single day is a law without moral authority, a meaningless law.
6. The current system of drug control doesn’t actually control anything. Who controls illicit drugs are those who produce, distribute and sell it. The current system has handed the monopoly of these products to the illegal drug industry, more commonly referred to as the drug trade or in Latin America, the “narcotráfico”. Delegates at the international conferences that were held over the course of the last century decided to prohibit certain drugs and plants. They probably had no idea of the violence, misery and destruction that would be caused and continues to be caused by the regime that they were creating.
7. The 1998 UNGASS resolutions to achieve significant quantifiable results in reducing drug supply and demand have not been accomplished. In some regions, such as Latin America, the drug problem has only been exacerbated, as the report from the Latin American Commission on Drugs and Democracy reveals.
Therefore we recommend the following:
1. UNODC should be separated into one agency for drugs and another one for crimes. It doesn’t make any sense to unite both drugs and crime under one agency. This association gives the absurd impression that drugs are criminal by nature, not by human discretion. Furthermore, this association furthers the stigmatization and criminalization of drug users. This should be completely undone. Drug misuse is a health and social problem and should not be subjected to interventions from the criminal justice system.
2. The conventions that rule the UN system of drug control should be revoked. Each Member State should have the freedom to develop its own drug policy, determining in light of domestic conditions the best ways in which to prevent and minimize the adverse health and social consequences of the problematic use of drugs.
3. The new system should encourage this decentralization, respecting the geographic and cultural differences and supporting the way each Member State chooses to deal with the drug industry, recreational and medicinal drugs.
4. The new system should also encourage harm reduction services and approaches as a way to deal with the use and misuse of drugs. Of the existing strategies, harm reduction seems to have the most significant, proven impact on promoting the health of people who use drug and preventing a number of diseases, including HIV and viral hepatitis, and associated social, health and economic consequences.
5. The score of the war on drugs – with all the destruction, violence and misery that it has inflicted on humanity and the environment – needs to be settled. Farmers should be compensated for the financial loss that is the result of forced crop eradication. Their governments and the countries that have interfered in their livelihoods in the name of “the war on drugs” should be held accountable. The negative impact on the economy, the violation of human rights, the displacement of people and poisoning of the soil should be rectified. The negative consequences of the war on drugs on the health of these populations and other vulnerable groups should be compensated.
6. Above all else, the UN system for drug control must be based on respect for fundamental human rights. All drug policies that violate human rights should be denounced.
At this 52nd CND session, we wish that the delegations of the Member States can finally set a new course on drug policy, far from the incomprehensible punitive prohibition that, contrary to what it professes, actually promotes violence and crime, and claims innocent lives.
Thank you.
UK statement on access to controlled medicines
The UK welcomes this discussion and believes that it should be an annual part of the agenda, as this is an essential part of the international narcotics control regime.
UK support access to opiates for pain and substitution treatment. UK is supporting a range of international activities to improve access.
Bridging the gap between need and supply is the goal, and therefore this issue must be tracked and monitored by INCB and others. Bridging this gap will require countries to overcome legislative, law enforcement and medical barriers. But this can be done, as Romania has shown.
UK support access to opiates for pain and substitution treatment. UK is supporting a range of international activities to improve access.
Bridging the gap between need and supply is the goal, and therefore this issue must be tracked and monitored by INCB and others. Bridging this gap will require countries to overcome legislative, law enforcement and medical barriers. But this can be done, as Romania has shown.
WHO statement on access to controlled medicines
WHO welcomes attention of INCB to this issue. Part of the drug control regime must be to maximise the availability of narcotics for medical use. WHO welcomes INCB's call for more attention by states to the issue of access to controlled medicines. WHO welcomes INCB's recognition that access to the medicines on the WHO list of essential medicines is a necessary component of the right to heath. Fear of abuse and dependence is the main cause of limited access.
WHO has yet to finish its review of Ketamine, and is not yet convinced that its harmfulness is sufficient to require it to be listed for control under the conventions. Doing so would limit its availability in developing countries for anaesthesia.
WHO has yet to finish its review of Ketamine, and is not yet convinced that its harmfulness is sufficient to require it to be listed for control under the conventions. Doing so would limit its availability in developing countries for anaesthesia.
Switzerland statement on access to controlled medicines
Access to medicine is inadequate in many countries, and this undermines the right to health. Over 80 million people suffer from moderate to severe unrelieved pain worldwide. Opioid substitution therapy is also frequently unavailable despite the evidence of its use as a drug treatment measure. Switzerland is making efforts to refine and improve its domestic policies and delivery of controlled medicines.
Venezuela's response to INCB statement
Venezuela raised concerns regarding the INCB's report and its description of the extent to which the country is a trafficking route.
Australia's response to INCB statement
Australia welcomes the work achieved last week the the High Level Meeting.
Australia is in the process of reviewing its national drug strategy for release later this year. It will ensure commitment to evidence-based best practice. Australia works in cooperation with its neighbours in the Pacific Islands.
Australia provides funding via UNODC for drug enforcement in Afghanistan.
Australia is in the process of reviewing its national drug strategy for release later this year. It will ensure commitment to evidence-based best practice. Australia works in cooperation with its neighbours in the Pacific Islands.
Australia provides funding via UNODC for drug enforcement in Afghanistan.
US response to INCB statement
The US strongly supports the INCB's international monitoring role and thanks the INCB for its annual report.
Agrees with the INCB's conclusions on Afghanistan and Colombia. US has 'actively encouraged' the Colombian government's efforts for many years and will continue to do so. US in 'increasing concerned' at increasing drug trafficking through Africa and commits its support to governments in the region.
Misuse of prescription drugs is a major issue in the US and requires specific demand reduction efforts. It highlights concerns on the issue online pharmaceutical sales in this regard.
Agrees with the INCB's conclusions on Afghanistan and Colombia. US has 'actively encouraged' the Colombian government's efforts for many years and will continue to do so. US in 'increasing concerned' at increasing drug trafficking through Africa and commits its support to governments in the region.
Misuse of prescription drugs is a major issue in the US and requires specific demand reduction efforts. It highlights concerns on the issue online pharmaceutical sales in this regard.
Denmark's response to INCB statement
Denmark affirmed its support for the earlier EU statement, and thanked the INCB for its report. It affirmed its willingness to continue to cooperate with INCB in its work.
Russian Federation's response to INCB statement
The Russian Federation thanked the INCB for its report, and for 'standing in the defense of the international narcotics control regime', and that it should 'stand watchful' against the attempts to 'dilute the regime'.
Russia expressed concerns about supply and traffic of precursor chemicals, and the supply of heroin from Afghanistan. Russia urged strict adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1817. Russia proposes 'marking' precursors, which it believes will cut down on their supply to Afghanistan.
Russia expressed concerns about supply and traffic of precursor chemicals, and the supply of heroin from Afghanistan. Russia urged strict adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1817. Russia proposes 'marking' precursors, which it believes will cut down on their supply to Afghanistan.
Colombia response to INCB statement
Colombia provided detailed data on its efforts to reduce drug trafficking and production. This includes legislative, investigative and enforcement mechanisms.
Norwegian response to INCB statement
The Norwegian representative welcomed the INCB report as it pinpoints central challenges facing us all. They fully associated themselves with the previous statement made on behalf of the EU.
They stated that low-threshold approaches must be expanded in order to counter blood-borne viruses and exlicitly included harm reduction interventions within these.
On drug consumption rooms (DCR), they felt that the INCB report referred only to the negative findings in research on DCRs and not the positive aspects of this intervention.
They stated that low-threshold approaches must be expanded in order to counter blood-borne viruses and exlicitly included harm reduction interventions within these.
On drug consumption rooms (DCR), they felt that the INCB report referred only to the negative findings in research on DCRs and not the positive aspects of this intervention.
Japanese response INCB statement
The Japanese delegation expressed concern about the international ketamine issue and urged WHO to accelerate discussions on ketamine control.
Japan welcomed the INCB annual report 2008 within which Japanese drug policy is described as one of the best in the world. They endeavour to continue this in the future.
They also appealed to the INCB to gather information on THC rich cannabis seeds around the world.
Japan welcomed the INCB annual report 2008 within which Japanese drug policy is described as one of the best in the world. They endeavour to continue this in the future.
They also appealed to the INCB to gather information on THC rich cannabis seeds around the world.
Thai response to INCB statement
Thailand expressed concern over the growing problem of ketamine use. The representative stated that they have strict control of ketamine at the national level and proposed that the Board do the same at the international level. This would not impact upon the medical use of ketamine but would allow the INCB to monitor the import and export of ketamine.
Iranian response to INCB statement
The Iranian representative described that despite multiple efforts, they are witnessing an increasing amount and diversity of illicit drug use as well as increasing numbers of people suffering from addiction, HIV and hepatitis. Iran has the highest amount of drug seizures in the region and these increased by 34% from 2007 to 2008.
In 2008, approximately 600,000 individuals were admitted to drug treatment services, a significant increase from 2007. The representative stated that they have managed to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS.
They called upon the global community, and particularly the CND, to give priority to countering the cultivation of illicit substances in Afghanistan and to contribute to alternative development plans, based on the principle of shared responsibilty.
In 2008, approximately 600,000 individuals were admitted to drug treatment services, a significant increase from 2007. The representative stated that they have managed to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS.
They called upon the global community, and particularly the CND, to give priority to countering the cultivation of illicit substances in Afghanistan and to contribute to alternative development plans, based on the principle of shared responsibilty.
Dutch response to INCB statment
The Netherlands stated their full association with the EU statement given by the Czech representative.
They welcomed the view of INCB that drug treatment should not be used as a method of control, and that it requires a humane and ethical approach that respects human rights. They stated that the INCB has a role to play in promoting this approach.
They also welcomed the INCB's focus on prevention and commented that much remains to be done to ensure that lessons learnt are applied in prevention programmes around the world. Unfortunately many prevention programmes are not based on effectiveness, and evaluation is all too rare. They stated that the INCB has a role to play in further stimulating evidence-based approaches and that this is of the utmost importance.
They emphasised the necessity of a flexible approach and went on to describe coffee shops and drug consumption rooms as part of this debate. They disagree with the asertion that drug consumption rooms (DCR) contravene the treaties. They count drug consumption rooms among the new, innovative and effective measures to reverse the adverse consequences of drug use and reduce drug-related harm. They do not operate for the purpose of administering drugs but for health care provision.
Drug consumption rooms aim to limit health damage, to improve the living situation of drug users and to reduce harms in society. Sometimes the DCR is the only health care facility which reaches drug users and this is particularly the case for crack cocaine users. They referred to research findings that DCR visitors decrease their drug use and their risk of overdose and other drug related harms. They stated that in their opinion these facilities do not conflict with international treaties.
In addition, they referred to Dutch coffee shops where small amounts of cannabis are sold and used under strict control. Cannabis is a controlled substance is the Netherlands. The expediency principle allows the public prosecutor to refrain from prosecution and allows discretion. The strict controls over coffee shops include no advertising, no sale of hard drugs, no nuisance caused, no sale to minors, no sales exceeding 5 grams per transaction. The users are not criminalised and therefore not forced to move in criminal circles, limiting the risk that they may try more dangerous drugs. The representative stressed that this approach has not led to a higher prevalence of cannabis use and that both the coffee shops and DCRs have had a positive impact on the health and wellbeing in the Netherlands.
They welcomed the view of INCB that drug treatment should not be used as a method of control, and that it requires a humane and ethical approach that respects human rights. They stated that the INCB has a role to play in promoting this approach.
They also welcomed the INCB's focus on prevention and commented that much remains to be done to ensure that lessons learnt are applied in prevention programmes around the world. Unfortunately many prevention programmes are not based on effectiveness, and evaluation is all too rare. They stated that the INCB has a role to play in further stimulating evidence-based approaches and that this is of the utmost importance.
They emphasised the necessity of a flexible approach and went on to describe coffee shops and drug consumption rooms as part of this debate. They disagree with the asertion that drug consumption rooms (DCR) contravene the treaties. They count drug consumption rooms among the new, innovative and effective measures to reverse the adverse consequences of drug use and reduce drug-related harm. They do not operate for the purpose of administering drugs but for health care provision.
Drug consumption rooms aim to limit health damage, to improve the living situation of drug users and to reduce harms in society. Sometimes the DCR is the only health care facility which reaches drug users and this is particularly the case for crack cocaine users. They referred to research findings that DCR visitors decrease their drug use and their risk of overdose and other drug related harms. They stated that in their opinion these facilities do not conflict with international treaties.
In addition, they referred to Dutch coffee shops where small amounts of cannabis are sold and used under strict control. Cannabis is a controlled substance is the Netherlands. The expediency principle allows the public prosecutor to refrain from prosecution and allows discretion. The strict controls over coffee shops include no advertising, no sale of hard drugs, no nuisance caused, no sale to minors, no sales exceeding 5 grams per transaction. The users are not criminalised and therefore not forced to move in criminal circles, limiting the risk that they may try more dangerous drugs. The representative stressed that this approach has not led to a higher prevalence of cannabis use and that both the coffee shops and DCRs have had a positive impact on the health and wellbeing in the Netherlands.
Republic of Korea response to INCB statement
The Republic of Korea focused on precursors and the problem of substance diversion in their response.
They stated their full support for the work of the INCB and its role as an information sharing agent.
They stated their full support for the work of the INCB and its role as an information sharing agent.
Swiss response to INCB statement
The Swiss delegation referred to the implementation of the the drug control treaties in their response. They were invited to engage in in-depth communication with the Board in May last year. While there were some differences in interpretation of the treaties, particulary around harm reduction interventions, they welcome future opportunities to carry on this dialogue with the INCB.
Iraq's response to INCB statement
The Iraqi delegation began by stating that Iraqi society is currently in an interim phase and that there are therefore many threats and challenges that they face, including drug abuse. As a transit country, they face a huge challenge in stemming the diversion of substances into Iraqi society.
The Ministry of Public Health is devoting their efforts to drug prevention. Services for drug addicts are provided in the context of psychological services. The Ministy of Health has recently embarked on a large drug prevention programme, involving the creation of a national body to combat drugs, with representation from various sectors including civil society. This body will prepare national policies to counter drugs, prepare necessary legislation, faciliatate communication between relevant ministries and will assist in enacting legislation on efforts to combat drugs.
The UNODC, with support of WHO, are currently conducting a survey on drug use which will soon be concluded.
The Ministry of Public Health is devoting their efforts to drug prevention. Services for drug addicts are provided in the context of psychological services. The Ministy of Health has recently embarked on a large drug prevention programme, involving the creation of a national body to combat drugs, with representation from various sectors including civil society. This body will prepare national policies to counter drugs, prepare necessary legislation, faciliatate communication between relevant ministries and will assist in enacting legislation on efforts to combat drugs.
The UNODC, with support of WHO, are currently conducting a survey on drug use which will soon be concluded.
Belgiun response to INCB statement
The Belgiun representative endorsed the European Presidency's statement and recognised drug abuse as a public health issue requiring that appropriate services are made available. They recognised the problem caused by internet drug sales and the powerlessness governments have over this. They referred to their commitment to counter Fentinel diversion. They recognised that the numbers of young people using cannabis are still too high and highlighted the investment of the Belgiun government in action campaigns with young people on this issue.
They continue to encourage INCB to produce information systems on psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals which enable data sharing and facilitate monitoring and evaluation.
They continue to encourage INCB to produce information systems on psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals which enable data sharing and facilitate monitoring and evaluation.
Afghanistan's response to INCB statement
Afghanistan thanked the INCB for its report, and expressed its desire to share achievements made in the fight against drugs.
There are now 18 'poppy free provinces' in Afghanistan, an increase from 13 in 2007. Seizures are up from last year. High level of poppy cultivation still exists in the south, due to the difficulty in enforcing the law there.
There are more than 1 million people using drugs in Afghanistan, and it is increasing the number of treatment centres as a result.
Afghanistan expressed willingness to work with its neighbours on border control.
There are now 18 'poppy free provinces' in Afghanistan, an increase from 13 in 2007. Seizures are up from last year. High level of poppy cultivation still exists in the south, due to the difficulty in enforcing the law there.
There are more than 1 million people using drugs in Afghanistan, and it is increasing the number of treatment centres as a result.
Afghanistan expressed willingness to work with its neighbours on border control.
Cuba's repsonse to the INCB statement
Cuba welcomed the INCB report. Cuba is neither a producer nor transit country, and drug use in 'insignificant'. Law enforcement and prevention are the key elements of Cuba's drug strategy. Cuba emphasised the need for international cooperation in drug control activities, and expressed its willingness to participate in such efforts.
Cuba welcomed the Political Declaration adopted at the High Level Meeting last week.
Cuba welcomed the Political Declaration adopted at the High Level Meeting last week.
EU response to INCB statement
The Czech Republic, speaking on behalf of the EU, emphasised the need to adhere to the international drug control conventions, and highlighted that the primary goal of the conventions is to promote the health and welfare of humankind and that these efforts should play a more prominent role.
It noted that the 1961 Single Convention was drafted before the identification of HIV and hepatitis C, and therefore no reference is made in the conventions to blood-borne viruses. However, the spread of blood-borne viruses via unsafe injecting calls for urgent attention. Opioid substitution therapy and needle exchange have shown to be effective measures to prevent the spread of blood-borne viruses among injecting drug users. The EU requested that the INCB continue to address the issue of HIV/AIDS among injecting drug users in its work.
The EU welcomed the INCB's attention to access to controlled medicines. It highlighted the need to improve access to drug treatment and rehabilitation, but emphasised that these activities must be compliant with human rights obligations.
The EU expressed ongoing concerns about drug trafficking through Africa and the destabilising effect it is having in some countries. The EU welcomed the INCB's report on precursors.
It noted that the 1961 Single Convention was drafted before the identification of HIV and hepatitis C, and therefore no reference is made in the conventions to blood-borne viruses. However, the spread of blood-borne viruses via unsafe injecting calls for urgent attention. Opioid substitution therapy and needle exchange have shown to be effective measures to prevent the spread of blood-borne viruses among injecting drug users. The EU requested that the INCB continue to address the issue of HIV/AIDS among injecting drug users in its work.
The EU welcomed the INCB's attention to access to controlled medicines. It highlighted the need to improve access to drug treatment and rehabilitation, but emphasised that these activities must be compliant with human rights obligations.
The EU expressed ongoing concerns about drug trafficking through Africa and the destabilising effect it is having in some countries. The EU welcomed the INCB's report on precursors.
CND 52nd Session of CND opens with speech from INCB President – Hamid Ghodse calls upon states to improve access to essential medicines
Now that the High Level Segment of CND is over, the regular business of the annual CND meeting began today, and runs until Friday.
The opening speaker was International Narcotics Control Board President, Hamid Ghodse, who emphasised the mandate of the INCB to ensure access to controlled medicines, including codeine and morphine. Access to these medicines is considered by WHO as a human right, yet it virtually non-existent in over 150 countries. Concerns over addiction is the factor most frequently cited on restricting access to controlled medicines. The INCB 'urges all governments' to identify the obstacles restricting access to opioid analgesics medicines, and to take steps to improve availability.
His speech went on to express concern over the internet sale of pharmaceuticals, the scale of which he described as ‘staggering’. He also expressed concern at smuggling via the use of courier services, as well as INCB concerns over the use of ketamine.
Ghodse lauded the contribution of NGOs to demand reduction efforts, and thank NGOs who work very hard to assist governments in the implementation of the international drug control treaties.
Ghodse spoke on the international situation regarding the control of precursor chemicals, and encouraged those states that have not ratified the drug conventions to do so.
Following the INCB statement, the floor was opened to questions and comments from member states.
The opening speaker was International Narcotics Control Board President, Hamid Ghodse, who emphasised the mandate of the INCB to ensure access to controlled medicines, including codeine and morphine. Access to these medicines is considered by WHO as a human right, yet it virtually non-existent in over 150 countries. Concerns over addiction is the factor most frequently cited on restricting access to controlled medicines. The INCB 'urges all governments' to identify the obstacles restricting access to opioid analgesics medicines, and to take steps to improve availability.
His speech went on to express concern over the internet sale of pharmaceuticals, the scale of which he described as ‘staggering’. He also expressed concern at smuggling via the use of courier services, as well as INCB concerns over the use of ketamine.
Ghodse lauded the contribution of NGOs to demand reduction efforts, and thank NGOs who work very hard to assist governments in the implementation of the international drug control treaties.
Ghodse spoke on the international situation regarding the control of precursor chemicals, and encouraged those states that have not ratified the drug conventions to do so.
Following the INCB statement, the floor was opened to questions and comments from member states.
Friday, 13 March 2009
False Consensus of UN Negotiations Exposed
At the adoption of the political declaration by the UN, the German delegation raised their flag and made the following statement:
'I have the honour to speak on behalf of the following states, Australia, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, St Lucia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, The United Kingdom, and of course Germany.
The aforementioned states declare that they will interpret the term 'related support services' used in the Political Declaration and the plan of action as including measures which a number of states, intergovernmental organisations and NGOs call harm reduction measures.
Madame Chair, I request that this statement be annexed to the report of this meeting.'
The German intervention received a sustained round of applause.
A number of countries then intervened to state that they could not support Germany's intervention. These countries were Russia, Colombia, Argentina, Cuba, USA, Sri Lanka, and Japan.
'I have the honour to speak on behalf of the following states, Australia, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, St Lucia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, The United Kingdom, and of course Germany.
The aforementioned states declare that they will interpret the term 'related support services' used in the Political Declaration and the plan of action as including measures which a number of states, intergovernmental organisations and NGOs call harm reduction measures.
Madame Chair, I request that this statement be annexed to the report of this meeting.'
The German intervention received a sustained round of applause.
A number of countries then intervened to state that they could not support Germany's intervention. These countries were Russia, Colombia, Argentina, Cuba, USA, Sri Lanka, and Japan.
Singapore Speaks at HLM
In the early 1990s the drug situation in Singapore was deteriorating and it became critical for Singapore early on to address the drug problem early on. We have taken tough laws with vigorous enforcement efforts. Drug addicts go through compulsory rehabilitation regime to kick their addiction and pick up useful skills. We also disseminate the anti drug message through various initiatives. The number of addicts dealt with in Singapore has reduced by 57% and today Singapore registers one of the lowest drug problems worldwide. Harm reduction versus harm prevention! In 2002 doctors began prescribing subutex – we realised it fuels addiction, doesn't cure it and we had the emergence of a needle culture begin - Something not seen in the 1970s! Much effort was taken to stamp out subutex abuse including requiring subutex addicts to go through rehabilitation. We respect some countries choose harm reduction but Singapore adopts a zero tolerance stance. We have launched anti drugs campaigning and we wish to share our experiences with other member states. That we are gathered here today represents common commitment to countering the drug scourge.
India addresses HLM
Referring to the full speech that was submitted in writing, India chose simply to stress the following themes:
- Alternative development was one of the first goals of ungass 1998. India believes this is the appropriate way and that we should continue this path. Weaning farmers away from illicit drugs is difficult but the golden triangle has shown that it can be done. We are not opposed to crop eradication either where that is the policy of the government we concerned and in fact we in india destroy drugs wherever they are noticed.
- A late problem is ATS and precursors. Significant gaps remain in the international precursor control regime. There are countries and regimes where there are no significant laws worth the name and no mechanism to verify legitimacy. We therefore request cnd to work to expand precursor control as a shared responsibility.
- the new area of concern is the misuse of internet pharmacies to smuggle drugs. Our narcotic control bureau has busted such companies but we need to tackle this problem at the global level.
- Alternative development was one of the first goals of ungass 1998. India believes this is the appropriate way and that we should continue this path. Weaning farmers away from illicit drugs is difficult but the golden triangle has shown that it can be done. We are not opposed to crop eradication either where that is the policy of the government we concerned and in fact we in india destroy drugs wherever they are noticed.
- A late problem is ATS and precursors. Significant gaps remain in the international precursor control regime. There are countries and regimes where there are no significant laws worth the name and no mechanism to verify legitimacy. We therefore request cnd to work to expand precursor control as a shared responsibility.
- the new area of concern is the misuse of internet pharmacies to smuggle drugs. Our narcotic control bureau has busted such companies but we need to tackle this problem at the global level.
Saudi Arabia
No one can ignore the fact that the adverse effects of drugs are not confined to any single country and that is why my country the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia subscribes great importance to combating narcotic drugs. We have criminalised all forms of trafficking drugs. We are waging war against these drugs which are a social disaster. The damage can affect many different aspects of human life and lead to the growth of crime. That is why we have set up a special agency to combat these substances. Given the importance of the agency and its role it enjoys a high level. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is combating narcotic drugs at a number of levels firstly in relation to supply, we have stepped up our border controls in order to do everything possible to prevent these substances from entering the country and also we have sentences which are deterrents. We have trained offices and secret service agents who combat drug trafficking. We have ways to keep officials abreast of all new innovations and techniques which may be used by the drug cartels in specific instances and we have 18 liaison offices designed to step up cooperation and enhance the exchange of information with the competent authorities of the region. This has had a constructive impact in fighting the drug cartels and it has been possible to apprehend a fair number of miscreants. As to controlled deliveries we are using them to apprehend traffickers and dealers and we have carried out a number of national and regional seminars to fight drug trafficking. We are also engaged in combating the diversion of chemical precursors. We are seeing to it that these are only used in legal fashion. Let me turn to demand reduction. We have arranged seminars describing the damage wrought by narcotic drugs. We also have bilateral regional agreements and international accords including the convention on psychotropic substance – we have ratified all of them. Ladies and gentlemen illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs constitutes organised crime and the cartels are organising and perpetratging drug trafficking activities to make a fortune and they are damaging the health of populations at large. We are convinced of the need to identify the sources of drugs to identify where they are being grown and processed. It is essential to identify the sources so as to cut back volumes as much as possible but there need to be coalescing of airports at the regional and international level.
France Speech to HLM
France fully endorses the statement of the Czech republic. We must step up the fight against drugs. We must remember the stakes are high, these challenges are international. The political declaration reflects the new approach to drugs – its all in there – chairman we know that traffickers make light of national boundaries and the links between terrorism and national countries are a grave threat. We must bear in mind the threat to the security of states posed by the drug trade. It is clear that the rise in power of transnational crime has other causes, not just drugs, and that in no way is this is a consequence of the international conventions. These responsibilities are joint. We can no longer base ourselves on a rational of consumer country v producer country v trafficking country and the international countries must have a joint and coordinated respond. Indeed the initial responsibility is for a state and to take care of those individuals – their citizenry and to mitigate the medical and physical consequences of drug use. The French governmental plan has determined three basis access of thrust, to prevent initial consumption, to conduct resolute action, to ensure supply is going to drop and to diversify the treatment available to the most vulnerable and ensure peace and security. We cannot also allow ourselves to tolerate the destabilisation to nations. We must thwart organised crime upstream, clamping down on precursors, and downstream confiscating the monies of organised crime and we have to be sure that the environmental impact of the coca poppy in the long term is not negative.
Georgia Speech to HLM
We have in Georgia decided that it is necessary to have a return towards a more humane drug policy and we have involved ourselves increasingly in preventive and treatment programmes - these have become much more extensive throughout our country and include opioid substitution therapies, financing of programmes, as well as drug dependency treatments and harm reduction as well. This makes Georgia a leader in promoting evidence base in the Caucuses. Georgia is very tempting for narcotic drug traffickers all the more so because we are in a state of war and part of our territory is occupied by others and so cannot be controlled so it is of primordial importance not to halt or suspend any projects already ongoing with the EU and UN efforts within our country over the last 6 years. We have registered some successful results but we are worred that the numbers of drug users are not falling. There is more proliferation going on and there is diversification into ATS and high prevalence of hepatitis as well as overdoses and criminal behaviour of drug users in general. Crime has dropped in our country thanks to law enforcement efforts however there is not a total drop of drug related offences per se, this is one of the remaining thorny and difficult tasks so far elusive of all our efforts. We must also bear in mind the need in our country to afford access to our citizens who need acute and chronic pain relief. In this respect it is essential to adopt the political declaration. We hope it will be incorporating the positive experience required with regard to drug demand reduction. It is necessary to stymie diversions of deliveries from Georgia and other states. We must remember that in Georgia harm reduction mitigates the social and health effects of drug use and this should be reflected in the political declaration. We need to guarantee treatment. We would like to point out in a couple of years time we are coming up to jubilee celebration, we haven’t had sea changes regards to drugs we have had new forms of drugs, manufacturing techniques, and both manufacturing and sale of drugs has gone global – there has been a transformation of drug profiles that are emerging and we have to develop a single drug convention based on acquired experience over last 100 years. We certainly hope that the near future will be marking successes in relation to international communities.
Paraguay Statement to HLM
Drug traffickers use small planes to go over Paraguayan territory. If 40 – 60kg of cocaine is going over our air space, the minimum the international community could do is support us with the technology we need to identify and intercept these drugs, this is the least that can be expected of international cooperation. From each dollar we have received from other sources we have been able to do million dollars of work. Paraguay has been devoted to eradicating illicit crops but as soon as these crops are destroyed others are planted. The presence of our forces once they have come into these different villages and areas is simply temporary, the plants pop up again. The eradication of illicit crops should have as a prior prerequisite alternative development so before destroying our cannabis fields the international community should be able to provide these poor farmers with legal alternatives. Paraguay would like to make a friendly observation – there must be an end to the discrimination that exists between marijuana fields and coca and opium fields when it comes to international agencies deciding what cooperation they are going to make available for alternative development. The cooperation received by coca farmers is considerable and they get tariffed preferences for the manufactured replacement products but those who produce marijuana don’t get these incentives – there is discrimination and there is no incentive for these farmers to grow something else. In our national assembly there is a bill for decriminalisation of personal consumption. My delegation is going to evaluate this possibility for marijuana. Paraguay is aware of the economic cloak of transnational trafficking gangs which will seek to have political power locally and legally therefore we must endow technological and upgraded human resources so as to strengthen work against corruption. In concluding, given the emphasis laid, we would hope alternative development would be applied to marijuana as well. We add our voice to other distinguished developments but we ask that you do not rule out any natural plant.
Germany Speech to HLM
I would like first to congratulate you Madame Chair on your election as chair of the high level segment and to use this opportunity to associate myself with the statement delivered by Czech on eu. This HLM is a very important meeting to establish a basis of international cooperation in drug policy for the next 10 years following declarations of the Genera Assembly in 1990 and 1998, this new declaration should identify future priorities and areas requiring further action as well as goals and targets to be set in countering the world drug problem beyond 2009. We think the review process itself induced the member states to evaluate what has been achieved and where the international community has failed. The results of this review are mixed.
On the one hand we can observe progress in some regards. Member states and the international community have made great efforts to strengthen international cooperation, instruments, and information known and we have developed better treatment worldwide.
On the other hand we must admit the goals and targets of 1998 have not been met. Consumption is not significantly reduced. In many parts of the world it is increased considerably. The same applies for supply of illicit drugs which have not increased globally either – despite all efforts. Taking stock leaves us with one conclusion. More of the same is not enough if we want to continue the ambitious objectives of 1998 we need to add new instruments to our tool box and consider ways and means to be more effective. There is one such effective tool, it is harm reduction.
Harm reduction addresses the adverse consequences of drug abuse. Harm reduction complements reatment and prevention - it does not prevent them. Our first priority is to prevent use of drugs, second is treatment to get them off, third, when prevention and treatment have failed we must address the adverse health and social consequences of drug abuse, in Germany we call this help for survival. This includes medically supervised outreach facilities, needle exchange etc. This has been proven to be effective. To be frank the draft political declaration does not satisfy us. We regret very much that it does not mention harm reduction though we think it is covered by ‘related support services’.
We would have also like to see proper sequencing and non conditionality which are an integral element of alternative development.
We welcome that the political declaration confirms some principles of 1998 ungass decisions – but we would like to have seen also, system wide coherence, proportionality, and evidence base policy in all fields of counter narcotics policy.
Nevertheless i am confident that together we will be able to establish a solid basis for the interational community to develop new tools and instruments to counter the world drug problem tomorrow and we stand ready to work with you all.
On the one hand we can observe progress in some regards. Member states and the international community have made great efforts to strengthen international cooperation, instruments, and information known and we have developed better treatment worldwide.
On the other hand we must admit the goals and targets of 1998 have not been met. Consumption is not significantly reduced. In many parts of the world it is increased considerably. The same applies for supply of illicit drugs which have not increased globally either – despite all efforts. Taking stock leaves us with one conclusion. More of the same is not enough if we want to continue the ambitious objectives of 1998 we need to add new instruments to our tool box and consider ways and means to be more effective. There is one such effective tool, it is harm reduction.
Harm reduction addresses the adverse consequences of drug abuse. Harm reduction complements reatment and prevention - it does not prevent them. Our first priority is to prevent use of drugs, second is treatment to get them off, third, when prevention and treatment have failed we must address the adverse health and social consequences of drug abuse, in Germany we call this help for survival. This includes medically supervised outreach facilities, needle exchange etc. This has been proven to be effective. To be frank the draft political declaration does not satisfy us. We regret very much that it does not mention harm reduction though we think it is covered by ‘related support services’.
We would have also like to see proper sequencing and non conditionality which are an integral element of alternative development.
We welcome that the political declaration confirms some principles of 1998 ungass decisions – but we would like to have seen also, system wide coherence, proportionality, and evidence base policy in all fields of counter narcotics policy.
Nevertheless i am confident that together we will be able to establish a solid basis for the interational community to develop new tools and instruments to counter the world drug problem tomorrow and we stand ready to work with you all.
St Lucia's Speech to HLM & Reservation to PD
This is the official written text of the statement of St. Lucia.
'Madam Chair, in our desire to be respectful and keep the time limit, we strongly support all the accolades previously extended to the Chair.
We have been asked to speak on the progress achieved and the challenges encountered in meeting the goals and targets set out by the political declaration at the 20th Special Session.
In progress – we are now getting used acknowledging that drug users are entitled to human rights.
The challenge is actually applying those human rights and due process under the law to people who use drugs.
Progress: We have a greater acknowledgement of drug use as a public health issue. In my country, we have begun street-based care for homeless crack cocaine users, assisting them to reduce the social and health consequences of their drug use, helping to keep them as healthy as possible until they chose to exit their drug using career
The challenge is calling this intervention Harm Reduction. For some reason that I fail to understand, even countries that provide services that can only be called harm reduction services, continue to refuse to call them that and actively discourage other countries from using the term. The UNODC is comfortable using the term harm reduction when will the rest of catch up.
Harm Reduction is a strategy to address the health and social needs of drug users while they are using drugs. These are strategies designed to keep people alive and infection free while they work on their issues.
Harm reduction is not about legalization of drugs.
Harm reduction is not permission to use drugs.
Harm reduction is engaging people in a process that leads them to a healthier life style.
In the name of supply reduction – of reducing the size of the drug market rather then the consequences of the drug market, we can not claim much progress. Our law enforcement services work hard and place themselves in harms way to reduce the transit of cocaine through my nation. Nonetheless, even with increasing numbers of seizures, the quantity of cocaine and the price of cocaine on the street have remained steady. Not only have our interdiction efforts failed to reduce the supply of drugs, we are victiums of the “unintended consequences” of supply reduction.
Our prisons are over-crowded: 13 Caribbean states are among the top 20 nations that have the highest incarnation rate (per 100,000 population) in the world.
In the name of supply reduction, the homes of cannabis farmers have been destroyed during eradication exercises as a way to discourage re-planting of the crop.
Further, several countries in the Caribbean, including my country, have been named in a recently-issued human rights report as having a high level of extra-judicial killings.
Corruption fueled by the huge sums of money generated by drug trafficking make small island states such as mine vulnerable to the influence of organized crime.
So, while we have made progess in working with people, we still have many more challenges to overcome. Assisting us to over come these challenges are the support of our international partners, so I gratefully acknowledge the support of the Canadian Government, the British Government, the European Union, OAS/CICAD and the World Bank for their assistance to my country and all CARICOM states in supporting projects in the area of drug demand reduction, HIV prevention and povery reduction.
I further acknowledge the commitment and support of UNODC for organizing the Meeting of Ministers of National Security in Santo Domingo two weeks ago, and for inviting me to speak on issues of HIV and Drugs. The UNODC clearly recognises that HIV is an important security issue for our governments, and not only a health issue. So allow me to take this opportunity to request to our friends that where possible they support the Santo Domingo Pact and the Caribbean Plan of Action, especially thoses areas related to harm reduction, HIV prevention, prison reform, alternative sentencing and poverty reduction.
Madam Chair
Allow me as I close to express a reservation to the political declaration hat I would like recorded in the official record.
Saint Lucia is a small island developing state and does not have a permanent mission in Vienna. Saint Lucia was keen to participate in the negotiations but as was with many smaller nations left out of the process in its final stages. The last draft of the political declaration we received was dated 27 February. The political declaration has clearly undergone significant changes since that time.
While my country supports the content on the Political Declaration, recognizes the many good points raised in it and will endorse it, we find the assumption of our acquiescence disrespectful and for this reason lodge our reservation and invite other nations who feel similarly to join us in this reservation.
Thank you Madam Chair'
'Madam Chair, in our desire to be respectful and keep the time limit, we strongly support all the accolades previously extended to the Chair.
We have been asked to speak on the progress achieved and the challenges encountered in meeting the goals and targets set out by the political declaration at the 20th Special Session.
In progress – we are now getting used acknowledging that drug users are entitled to human rights.
The challenge is actually applying those human rights and due process under the law to people who use drugs.
Progress: We have a greater acknowledgement of drug use as a public health issue. In my country, we have begun street-based care for homeless crack cocaine users, assisting them to reduce the social and health consequences of their drug use, helping to keep them as healthy as possible until they chose to exit their drug using career
The challenge is calling this intervention Harm Reduction. For some reason that I fail to understand, even countries that provide services that can only be called harm reduction services, continue to refuse to call them that and actively discourage other countries from using the term. The UNODC is comfortable using the term harm reduction when will the rest of catch up.
Harm Reduction is a strategy to address the health and social needs of drug users while they are using drugs. These are strategies designed to keep people alive and infection free while they work on their issues.
Harm reduction is not about legalization of drugs.
Harm reduction is not permission to use drugs.
Harm reduction is engaging people in a process that leads them to a healthier life style.
In the name of supply reduction – of reducing the size of the drug market rather then the consequences of the drug market, we can not claim much progress. Our law enforcement services work hard and place themselves in harms way to reduce the transit of cocaine through my nation. Nonetheless, even with increasing numbers of seizures, the quantity of cocaine and the price of cocaine on the street have remained steady. Not only have our interdiction efforts failed to reduce the supply of drugs, we are victiums of the “unintended consequences” of supply reduction.
Our prisons are over-crowded: 13 Caribbean states are among the top 20 nations that have the highest incarnation rate (per 100,000 population) in the world.
In the name of supply reduction, the homes of cannabis farmers have been destroyed during eradication exercises as a way to discourage re-planting of the crop.
Further, several countries in the Caribbean, including my country, have been named in a recently-issued human rights report as having a high level of extra-judicial killings.
Corruption fueled by the huge sums of money generated by drug trafficking make small island states such as mine vulnerable to the influence of organized crime.
So, while we have made progess in working with people, we still have many more challenges to overcome. Assisting us to over come these challenges are the support of our international partners, so I gratefully acknowledge the support of the Canadian Government, the British Government, the European Union, OAS/CICAD and the World Bank for their assistance to my country and all CARICOM states in supporting projects in the area of drug demand reduction, HIV prevention and povery reduction.
I further acknowledge the commitment and support of UNODC for organizing the Meeting of Ministers of National Security in Santo Domingo two weeks ago, and for inviting me to speak on issues of HIV and Drugs. The UNODC clearly recognises that HIV is an important security issue for our governments, and not only a health issue. So allow me to take this opportunity to request to our friends that where possible they support the Santo Domingo Pact and the Caribbean Plan of Action, especially thoses areas related to harm reduction, HIV prevention, prison reform, alternative sentencing and poverty reduction.
Madam Chair
Allow me as I close to express a reservation to the political declaration hat I would like recorded in the official record.
Saint Lucia is a small island developing state and does not have a permanent mission in Vienna. Saint Lucia was keen to participate in the negotiations but as was with many smaller nations left out of the process in its final stages. The last draft of the political declaration we received was dated 27 February. The political declaration has clearly undergone significant changes since that time.
While my country supports the content on the Political Declaration, recognizes the many good points raised in it and will endorse it, we find the assumption of our acquiescence disrespectful and for this reason lodge our reservation and invite other nations who feel similarly to join us in this reservation.
Thank you Madam Chair'
Argentina Speech to HLM
We have changed our methodology from qualitative to quantitave when dealing with drug crimes. We are dealing with new types of drugs including precursors. We are giving greater emphasis to international criminal law cooperation which was almost non existant. In orther words, Argentina has done what needed to be done and we have taken steps towards use, abuse and production. We are aware of use of drugs in prison populations and hiv in the prisons and we have decided to defend human rights. We have also taken the unprecedented measures of the distribution of condoms and we have come up with a broad ranging plan with the health services. Concerning the present session, there is a dual goal, a reminder of the commitments we have already made (respecting fundamental freedoms), respect for international cooperation and respect for due process. None of this is news. We are going to bring evaluation of production and distributions within the framework of the appropriate conventions. We would invite states to give new emphasis to the spirit of the united nations charter and make the following recommendation that crops be eradicated for the most vulnerable populations. As for the UN declaration it must be implemented in accordance with the declaration of human rights. Also, respect for due process on the basis of the united nations charter and international instruments to do with human rights. In the case of any conflict between the two, the charter must always prevail. Shared responsibility between states should be enhanced to reduce the size of the illegal market in particular with regards to criminal law, correct evaluation of drug monitoring and control . On behalf of the President of Argentina all of us must respect human rights and the rule of law and in particular we must not forget Article 56 and 57 of the Charter and that all actions must be under framework of human rights, fundamental freedoms rule of law
Morocco Speech to HLM
We hope that these two documents will be subject to rapid implementation. Morocco finds itself in the front line thanks to the mobilisation of morroccan authorities and investing of national means with the national strategy against cannabis through the Moroccan security forces. UNODC and all of the partners here bilaterally and multilaterally should provide necessary technical assistance. Criminal organisations are national even global. We must also fight against drug consumption, it is drug consumption that allows gangs to obtain their power so this must be a top priority as it is to do with collective human strength and security – entire regions of the world are destabilised and drugs are connected to human trafficking rings, terrorism, and organised crime. I am aware that the global approach is imperative and we have put the national strategy in the fight against drugs at the centre of our approach. The Morroccan strategy is part of the global approach to supply reduction. The strategy has as its objectives the significant elimination of cannabis cultivation and we have eradicated 70% of the known area and dismantled many of the known organised crime and trafficking rings – but note, 600 of the people we’ve brought before our courts in this regard were not Morroccan. Alternative development in the form of agriculture, fishing, and other activities that can produce social income have had a positive impact as have regional cooperation agreements and i think this is an excellent example of the right kind of initiatives. I’d also like to mention moroccan’s joining the anti drugs coordination centre. If we look at the documents with incb you will see that morroccan has been determined but that efforts have been modest compared with the size of the task and in order to make sure our results are long lasting in particular with regard to alternative development we reiterate that international cooperation is the main pillar of any fight against the drug system.
Algeria National Speech to HLM
Algeria's participation in the HLM bears witness to the continuity of the commitment to the strengthening of the international regime for drug control and the fight against narcotics worldwide through the promotion of socio economic development and the rule of law all of which is a contribution towards peace and security and the millennium development of goals. Algeria associates itself with a remobilisation of efforts by international community as reflected in the political declaration and plan of action. We must favour international cooperation and to meet the challenges we face today because of the production and consumption and trafficking of illicit drugs. Efforts should be focussed as a priority on strengthening the international regime and the instruments of control – consolidation should take place of unodc and incb. In this context we have to emphasise the prime responsibility that states have for the implementation of international instruments in the context of fight against drugs and also the concept of shared responsibilities and bearing in mind the legal obligations of countries under treaties. We are alarmed by the alarming increase of cocaine and cannabis production, and highlight the acute nature of this problem. This problem of all drugs has no exception. As we all know the new and major challenges we face feed off the blood money of narcotics. Mutual legal assistance, extradition, and exchange of intelligence is required as part of international cooperation. The devastating effects of blood money and ill gotten gain and the integrity of justice and police system are evidenced and national cooperation must follow. We will gain by the synergy created here to the UNODC and INCB as well as other bodies such as UNAIDS and WHO. These organisations, particularly UNODC, should be given enough financial assistance to meet their obligations. As a country which is a transit country for drugs from the meditteranean and Sub Saharan African, we would urge UNODC to employ greater efforts towards transit countries. We are ready to make our contribution. Algeria is working on trying to strike a balance between law enforcement and deterrence and prevention. We have even passed a law on alternatives to imprisonment for drug addicts such as treatment and rehabilitioin and we are tyring to involve civil society in this issue. We have been strengthening our main office on drugs as well as the scientific laboraties. We would like to take this opportunity to work resolutely towards the realisation of objectives to free our world in the next decade of the threats of drug abuse to human health.
Guatamala Speech to HLM
In the transit countries we are not substituting illicit crops for licit ones - we are substituting illicit activities for licit ones but still often farmers are forced to cooperate with drug traffickers leaving their legitimate crops and allowing their farms to be used for air strips for example. We are preoccupied that the drug traffickers are using groups of organised youth, for the most part made up of minors, and even children. The transit countries turn into storage areas, services are paid in cash or in product. International attention has focussed on countries that produce large drugs. This does not attend to new producer countries emerging and transit countries. Attention must be paid and not least to alternative development. We have strengthened national laws against trafficking and drug abuse. Financial problems limit the scope of prevention and treatment programmes and limit the efforts made to strengthen the rule of law. We will continue to carry out and support actions on a global and national level. We need to support additional technical and financial resources. We make an appeal to unodc especially with regards to earmarking under the action plan on behalf of the countries of Central America.
El Salvador Speech to HLM
My delegation endorses the statement made by Argentina on behalf of G77 and China and we wish to express our gratitude for the UNODC development of new initiatives for crime prevention work. We express our staunch support to UNODC to continue carrying out its work in a timely way. Due to its strategic position on the continent, central America suffers from organised crime and the positioning of cartels which have converted our countries into transits. We seek to guarantee regional security from a comprehensive standpoint. We are all aware of the adverse impact of drug trafficking on security and stability through corruption and terrorism. We repeat our firm condemnation of all these scourges. We believe in the need for mechanisms to prevent and combat all these problems to combat violence and we look for alternative means to combat drug prevention and crime. In this spirit we wish to point out our regional summit. It is important to have a shared and common responsibility and we should investigate and punish crimes related to drugs. A serious threat to peace and social stability is the problem of the criminal action of gangs, this is a cross border matter and we are working out comprehensive polices. We are also working to encourage the signing of international conventions and we are working towards an international law enforcement academy which facilitates technical training for all officials. We support the establishment of a regional centre in El Salvador, Mr Costa will be visiting my country to inaugaurate this. We want to share experiences and look at every link in the chain. We believe it is important to have networks and combat this scourge. Madame chair there have been many challenges from the 1998 ungass general assembly session and it is only political will that will mean we can come to grips with this drug problem that destroys our populations.
Remarks of Michel Perron, Chair of Beyond 2008 Steering Committee
'Madame Chair, Ministers, Excellencies, distinguished government and non governmental representatives. My name is Michel Perron and I am the Chair of Beyond 2008: a global NGO review on the 1998-2008 UNGASS on illicit drugs. I represent the sole NGO statement specifically provided for at this High Level Segment. I am both honored at this responsibility and acutely aware of the limitations to such a task.
THE LEAD UP TO THE HLS
Many of you heard Her Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden introduce Beyond 2008 yesterday morning. Beyond 2008 sought the views of hundreds of NGOs from 145 countries involved at all levels from prevention and treatment experts, policy advocates, community leaders, youth groups, drug users, academics, HIV/AIDS experts and many more. These individuals represent the voice of your NGOs – your citizens.
Many of the people we met with had never heard of the CND, much less the three international drug control conventions and UNGASS was simply an unknown acronym. Yet, Beyond 2008 participants represent a rich, substantial and unique insight into the drug problem, how it affects individuals, families and communities and what’s working well – or not.
NGOs bring a demonstrated experience and knowledge in the provision of a broad range of services from primary prevention, early intervention, outreach, peer outreach and low threshold services for treatment, rehabilitation and recovery services and the development of the capacity of those engaged in these services.
Beyond 2008 set out to extract that 'on the ground' knowledge and apply it to recommendations for the future of drug control policy. We succeeded in bridging the predictable ideological, cultural and philosophical divides and adopted by consensus, a Declaration and three resolutions that have been circulated to you.
We acknowledged the drug control conventions, the flexibility afforded within these and the role and mandate of the CND and we were able to agree on a term that continues to challenge the Commission and which was notably absent from the Political Declaration - harm reduction. As defined by us it means efforts primarily to address and prevent the adverse health and social consequences of illicit/harmful drug use, including reducing HIV and other blood borne infections.
THE HLS
The NGO community put serious effort into this historic process as a demonstration and understanding of our shared responsibility towards addressing this issue. We did so also by responding to the call from the UN and CND for civil society to become more engaged and to contribute to the review of the UNGASS on illicit drugs.
While indeed Beyond 2008 has been afforded the opportunity to contribute to the HLS preparations and this meeting, this did not apply to NGOs more broadly and we are of the view that CND should focus on improving its relationship with civil society at the gatherings, the regular meetings of CND and its inter-sessional meetings.
That said, Beyond 2008 outlines practical, realistic and tangible actions for the future. We focused first on substance then words and I am pleased to note that there are important similarities between our work and the Political Declaration.
Specifically, we sought to give those most affected a voice. And you have responded by underscoring the role of affected populations and civil society entities to play a participatory role in formulating drug policy.
We called on the CND to re-affirm its commitment to fulfill the obligations and commitments of international instruments such as human rights protection and you responded clearly supporting same.
We called on the CND to ensure that drug demand reduction activities be considered as challenges of equal importance to and as required as supply reduction activities. Again we found a point of commonality.
Finally we noted that while significant progress in specific instances have been achieved towards the UNGASS goals, generally results have been limited. Here again, we seem to find common ground.
THE CHALLENGE FOR THE FUTURE
The High Level Segment allows for you as the governing body for drug policy to ensure that your response is equal to the need.
And we know this need is as compelling as ever. Beyond 2008 participants underscored that greater attention should be given to the health and public health aspects of drug policy given the rapid spread of blood borne infections, including HIV and hepatitis, and the increasing evidence of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
Beyond 2008 has created a call for action - we do not see our work finishing here but starting. There remain many recommendations that we see as critical for you to consider and adopt if we are indeed to make a substantive gain towards targets.
These include improving how the CND conducts its work and where we believe it must develop a common standard against which demand, harm reduction and supply reduction activities can be measured in terms of their efficacy and outcomes.
We also believe that CND should evaluate its own work and policies and identify ways in which its effectiveness and impact might be improved.
We also recommend that CND review how other UN bodies of this type engage with civil society and affected populations and to embrace a new way of working together.
Finally we look to you to ensure that the voice of youth is present in your deliberations as they are all too often spoken of but not with.
Madam Chair, Beyond 2008 has created a connective tissue between global drug control conventions and the reality of daily life for people around the world. These people are your citizens. Simply put and with the greatest of respect – governments cannot do it alone. The CND cannot do it alone. Nor can civil society.
Civil society has, through Beyond 2008, shown itself to be a serious and important partner in this endeavor. We ask that you genuinely accept this relationship and work in concert with us for the betterment of all.
Thank you.'
THE LEAD UP TO THE HLS
Many of you heard Her Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden introduce Beyond 2008 yesterday morning. Beyond 2008 sought the views of hundreds of NGOs from 145 countries involved at all levels from prevention and treatment experts, policy advocates, community leaders, youth groups, drug users, academics, HIV/AIDS experts and many more. These individuals represent the voice of your NGOs – your citizens.
Many of the people we met with had never heard of the CND, much less the three international drug control conventions and UNGASS was simply an unknown acronym. Yet, Beyond 2008 participants represent a rich, substantial and unique insight into the drug problem, how it affects individuals, families and communities and what’s working well – or not.
NGOs bring a demonstrated experience and knowledge in the provision of a broad range of services from primary prevention, early intervention, outreach, peer outreach and low threshold services for treatment, rehabilitation and recovery services and the development of the capacity of those engaged in these services.
Beyond 2008 set out to extract that 'on the ground' knowledge and apply it to recommendations for the future of drug control policy. We succeeded in bridging the predictable ideological, cultural and philosophical divides and adopted by consensus, a Declaration and three resolutions that have been circulated to you.
We acknowledged the drug control conventions, the flexibility afforded within these and the role and mandate of the CND and we were able to agree on a term that continues to challenge the Commission and which was notably absent from the Political Declaration - harm reduction. As defined by us it means efforts primarily to address and prevent the adverse health and social consequences of illicit/harmful drug use, including reducing HIV and other blood borne infections.
THE HLS
The NGO community put serious effort into this historic process as a demonstration and understanding of our shared responsibility towards addressing this issue. We did so also by responding to the call from the UN and CND for civil society to become more engaged and to contribute to the review of the UNGASS on illicit drugs.
While indeed Beyond 2008 has been afforded the opportunity to contribute to the HLS preparations and this meeting, this did not apply to NGOs more broadly and we are of the view that CND should focus on improving its relationship with civil society at the gatherings, the regular meetings of CND and its inter-sessional meetings.
That said, Beyond 2008 outlines practical, realistic and tangible actions for the future. We focused first on substance then words and I am pleased to note that there are important similarities between our work and the Political Declaration.
Specifically, we sought to give those most affected a voice. And you have responded by underscoring the role of affected populations and civil society entities to play a participatory role in formulating drug policy.
We called on the CND to re-affirm its commitment to fulfill the obligations and commitments of international instruments such as human rights protection and you responded clearly supporting same.
We called on the CND to ensure that drug demand reduction activities be considered as challenges of equal importance to and as required as supply reduction activities. Again we found a point of commonality.
Finally we noted that while significant progress in specific instances have been achieved towards the UNGASS goals, generally results have been limited. Here again, we seem to find common ground.
THE CHALLENGE FOR THE FUTURE
The High Level Segment allows for you as the governing body for drug policy to ensure that your response is equal to the need.
And we know this need is as compelling as ever. Beyond 2008 participants underscored that greater attention should be given to the health and public health aspects of drug policy given the rapid spread of blood borne infections, including HIV and hepatitis, and the increasing evidence of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
Beyond 2008 has created a call for action - we do not see our work finishing here but starting. There remain many recommendations that we see as critical for you to consider and adopt if we are indeed to make a substantive gain towards targets.
These include improving how the CND conducts its work and where we believe it must develop a common standard against which demand, harm reduction and supply reduction activities can be measured in terms of their efficacy and outcomes.
We also believe that CND should evaluate its own work and policies and identify ways in which its effectiveness and impact might be improved.
We also recommend that CND review how other UN bodies of this type engage with civil society and affected populations and to embrace a new way of working together.
Finally we look to you to ensure that the voice of youth is present in your deliberations as they are all too often spoken of but not with.
Madam Chair, Beyond 2008 has created a connective tissue between global drug control conventions and the reality of daily life for people around the world. These people are your citizens. Simply put and with the greatest of respect – governments cannot do it alone. The CND cannot do it alone. Nor can civil society.
Civil society has, through Beyond 2008, shown itself to be a serious and important partner in this endeavor. We ask that you genuinely accept this relationship and work in concert with us for the betterment of all.
Thank you.'
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