The plenary session resumed late Friday afternoon, officially endorsing the conference report and resolutions drafted in the Committee of the Whole. Following that, the 53rd session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs came to a close.
That also brings to a close this edition of CNDblog.
Once again, the CNDblog was a huge success. We had over 1000 visits and 3300 page views during the 5 days of CND. Once again, we succeeded in providing unprecedented levels of transparency to this often less than transparent process.
We also received overwhelmingly positive and supportive feedback, both from NGOs and also from a number of country delegates at CND.
CNDblog would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our blogging team. Special thanks and kudos go to Marie of IDPC and Patrick of IHRA for their hours and hours of work.
See you all again next year.
Friday, 12 March 2010
CND Day 5 – USA on policy directives to the drug programme of the UNODC and strengthening the drug programme and the role of the CND
UNODC should include evaluation of its programmes. Part of incorporating evaluations into the UNODC is to show how it effectively uses money. The US is a big supporter of the UNODCs work. The general-purpose contributions are expected to decline, which is alarming. States must work together to come up with innovative solutions. It is important that the secretariat is given the flexibility to develop innovative programmes. The division of treaty affairs is also a vital entity to help states implement the drug conventions.
CND Day 5 – Norway on policy directives to the drug programme of the UNODC and strengthening the drug programme and the role of the CND
During the presentation, Norway's delegate emphasised that human rights and gender considerations are central to Norway’s development policy. It is a precondition for funding activities that the gender perspective is integrated and it must follow the entire life of the programme. Requested the UNODC to consider this in the realignment process and the planning of regional and thematic programmes.
Concerned with reduction in financial well-being. However, added that too few countries, including Norway, are carrying too big a burden of funding the UNODC.
General purpose needs should be integrated as part of the budgetary process for special programme and funds and requested feedback from the UNODC as to how this might be done.
Concerned with reduction in financial well-being. However, added that too few countries, including Norway, are carrying too big a burden of funding the UNODC.
General purpose needs should be integrated as part of the budgetary process for special programme and funds and requested feedback from the UNODC as to how this might be done.
CND Day 5 - UNODC’s introduction to policy directives to the drug programme of the UNODC and strengthening the drug programme and the role of the CND
UNODC outlined its financial situation and realignment process. The UNODC is facing a very severe budget situation, which could limit the UNODC’s abilities to deliver on its goals in the coming year.
CND Day 5 – USA plenary presentation on countering money-laundering and promoting judicial cooperation
States continue to make progress establishing anti-money laundering regimes. This progress includes increased capacity adhering to international standards and the use of existing networks. US notes continuing support for international plan of action, including strengthened frameworks, regulatory systems, increased establishment and capacity enhancement and a focus on public-private partnerships. Anticipates that continued technical assistance will lead to better coordination internationally.
Continues to encourage states to extradite their nationals and in many cases best evidence may exist outside of country of citizenship. States should enhance their capacity of local systems for legal assistance. The US plans to continue offering technical assistance to prosecutors and police internationally.
Continues to encourage states to extradite their nationals and in many cases best evidence may exist outside of country of citizenship. States should enhance their capacity of local systems for legal assistance. The US plans to continue offering technical assistance to prosecutors and police internationally.
CND Day 5 – Russian Federation plenary presentation on countering money-laundering and promoting judicial cooperation
The issue of detecting and cutting off the financial flows linked to drug trafficking has become extremely relevant at present. Unfortunately we see that even countering drug trafficking is a difficult endeavour. It may be necessary to go in all directions to counter narcotics trafficking. Throughout the world there is a focus on the financial systems of drug trafficking. States must have money-laundering squads in financial transaction units. Regionally the Eurasion States are pouring money into this and coordinating efforts with IMF and individual states in the Eurasion Group on Combating Money Laundering (EAG).
International cooperation is needed to disrupt the financial flows. Apart from the regional coordination of efforts it is necessary to go global. The group has developed a questionnaire to gather information on the work being done in other countries. Russia believes that given the complexity of the issue, they will have to coordinate to better focus on their response and the financial flows.
International cooperation is needed to disrupt the financial flows. Apart from the regional coordination of efforts it is necessary to go global. The group has developed a questionnaire to gather information on the work being done in other countries. Russia believes that given the complexity of the issue, they will have to coordinate to better focus on their response and the financial flows.
CND Day 5 - India plenary presentation on control of precursors and ATS
The chemical industry in India is huge with legitimate purposes. Controls are in place to limit illicit diversion. However, drug traffickers are finding alternative methods of developing ATS. Major labs have been disrupted and India has found new methods are being employed to develop ATS and obtain precursors.
Time limitations prohibit a detailed discussion of these methods but India remains watchful of these developing methods.
Time limitations prohibit a detailed discussion of these methods but India remains watchful of these developing methods.
CND Day 5 - Mexico plenary presentation on control of precursors and ATS
Mexico initiated a strategy to counter production. Up to 2007 import authorisation of pseudoephedrine was only required for large amounts. Federal law reviewed in 2009 and now controls on pseudoephedrine and derivatives have been significantly strengthened.
CND Day 5 - Nigeria plenary presentation on illicit drug traffic and supply and related measures
Nigeria is working to disrupt illicit flows and to enhance drug control regulations in Nigeria and in the region. Any support from the INCB and the international drug control system will be appreciated.
CND Day 5 - China on illicit drug traffic and supply and related measures
Regulation of precursors is a concern of the international community and to China. In 2009, the relevant agencies considered the existing laws and ways to strengthen them. Within the industries there have been regulations circulated to enhance internal regulation within the industries.
Chemicals of particular concern have been identified and China has worked to monitor flows of these substances in partnership with the INCB. China has cracked down hard on smuggling and illicit sale of precursors. China and EU have signed a joint cooperative agreement on precursors to prevent the flow of these chemicals into illicit markets. Hopes source and transit countries will share information with China so gaps can be closed quickly.
Chemicals of particular concern have been identified and China has worked to monitor flows of these substances in partnership with the INCB. China has cracked down hard on smuggling and illicit sale of precursors. China and EU have signed a joint cooperative agreement on precursors to prevent the flow of these chemicals into illicit markets. Hopes source and transit countries will share information with China so gaps can be closed quickly.
CND Day 5 - Lebanon on illicit drug traffic and supply and related measures
Along with other states Lebanon is joining the community seeking to develop a joint strategy. Both demand and supply must be focused on. Criminal elements try to distract our attention against the root causes of these problems, which are supply and the profits to traffickers. The delegate asked if failure of response could be attributed to the failure to exchange information; the ability of traffickers to manoeuvre within the gaps or simply if there needs to be a new strategy. If it not sensible to confront traffickers with a strategy that is not coordinated on the national side. Coordination, planning are terms states love to bandy but they must also venture into hands-on pragmatic efforts to turn these plans into reality. Efforts have thus far not materialised into the set goals.
Very often there is a shortcoming in financial and human efforts to detect and identify illegal crops, at customs points to inspect passage of goods or combing through luggage at airports. The need for where resources need to be devoted should be studied. Perhaps it would be wise to unify or make homogeneous measures – like information. States must have unified information on documents so traffickers can be monitored and caught. If not homogeneous, measures should at least harmonise. Perhaps the system should be tighter so perpetrators do not drop through the wholes and exploit the lacuna.
Perhaps UNODC’s regional office should be strengthened and pool regional contributions to counter-drug efforts.
Very often there is a shortcoming in financial and human efforts to detect and identify illegal crops, at customs points to inspect passage of goods or combing through luggage at airports. The need for where resources need to be devoted should be studied. Perhaps it would be wise to unify or make homogeneous measures – like information. States must have unified information on documents so traffickers can be monitored and caught. If not homogeneous, measures should at least harmonise. Perhaps the system should be tighter so perpetrators do not drop through the wholes and exploit the lacuna.
Perhaps UNODC’s regional office should be strengthened and pool regional contributions to counter-drug efforts.
CND Day 5 - Peru on illicit drug traffic and supply and related measures
Peru has worked with partners to exchange information on best practices and lessons learned on alternative development projects. Peru has succeeded to convince small-scale farmers against growing coca. Five main objectives that guide policy are: economic objectives; environmental goals; social goals; political goals and popular rejection of illicit trafficking.
CND Day 5 - Islamic Republic of Iran on illicit drug traffic and supply and related measures
Discussed the Triangular Initiative that is a partnership with three local countries – Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan. UNODC has helped broker the initiative and coordinate the activities. Four joint operations have been planned and implemented within the Triangular Initiative proving that the best way to combat drugs is with regional and international cooperation.
CND Day 5 - Kazakhstan on illicit drug traffic and supply and related measures
The delegation of Kazakhstan expressed its satisfaction with the CARICC (the Central Asian Regional Information Coordination Centre) and thanked partner governments and donors. Kazakhstan will try to avoid any duplication of efforts with other centres and thanked the UNODC for stepping up the capabilities.
Thursday, 11 March 2010
CND Day 4 - Committee of the Whole afternoon session
As detailed in yesterday's CNDblog, there was considerable debate in the Committee of the Whole yesterday on a resolution proposed by the EU, Norway, Switzerland, Uruguay and Thailand entitled 'Achieving universal access to treatment, care and support for people with HIV, including injecting drug users, by 2010' As detailed in yesterday's posting, the debate centred on the inclusion of human rights language in a preambular paragraph.
Much of the subsequent debate and negotiations today were held behind closed doors, and the country delegates hammered out wording they could all live with. This was the outcome.
The 'controversial' paragraph, as originally drafted, read:
'Concerned that the coverage of HIV prevention services is far from adequate in many countries with a high prevalence of injecting drug use and that HIV responses in many countries fail to meet international legal obligations to promote, protect and respect human rights'
The final agreement approved today split the paragraph in two:
'Concerned that the coverage of HIV prevention services is far from adequate in many countries with a high prevalence of injecting drug use.'
'Reaffirming that all countries should strive to achieve the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, as recognized in the relevant international instruments.'
Next the COW addressed three other disputed paragraphs.
Preambular paragraph 13, as originally drafted, read:
'Reaffirming the central importance of promoting the involvement of people living with or affected by HIV, including drug users, in shaping responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, as well as of working with civil society, a key partner in the global response to HIV/AIDS, including the response to the spread of HIV/AIDS through drug injection'
The final agreed text reads:
'Reaffirming the central importance of promoting meaningful involvement of people living with or affected by HIV and drug use, in shaping responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, as well as of working with civil society, a key partner in the global response to HIV/AIDS, including the response to the spread of HIV/AIDS through drug injection'
Next onto the operational paragraphs. The original text of operational paragraphs 2 and 3 read:
'Requests the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to support national authorities to align the policies and clarify the roles and responsibilities of relevant national entities, including drug control and public health agencies, as well as civil society, and to give its support to increasing capacity and resources for the provision of a comprehensive package of services for drug users, including risk prevention and harm reduction programmes in relation to HIV, in accordance with the WHO, UNODC, UNAIDS Technical Guide for Countries to Set Targets for Universal Access to HIV Prevention, Treatment and Care for Injecting Drug Users12 and the decision taken by the UNAIDS Programme Coordination Board in May 2009;'
'Also requests the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to significantly expand its work with all groups of civil society in order to address the gap in access to services for injecting drug users, to tackle the issues of stigmatization and discrimination and to support increased capacity and resources for the provision of a comprehensive package of services for injecting drug users, including risk prevention and harm reduction programmes in relation to HIV, as elaborated in the WHO, UNODC, UNAIDS Technical Guide for Countries to Set Targets for Universal Access to HIV Prevention, Treatment and Care for Injecting Drug Users and in line with Economic and Social Council resolution 2009/6 of 24 July 2009'
The final agreed text is as follows:
'Requests the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to support national authorities to align the policies and clarify the roles and responsibilities of relevant national entities, including drug control and public health agencies, as well as civil society, and to give its support to increasing capacity and resources for the provision of comprehensive prevention programmes and treatment care and related support services, in full compliance with the international drug control conventions and in accordance with national legislation, taking into account all relevant General Assembly resolutions and, when applicable, the WHO, UNODC, UNAIDS Technical Guide for Countries to Set Targets for Universal Access to HIV Prevention, Treatment and Care for Injecting Drug Users'
'Also requests the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to significantly expand its work with relevant groups of civil society in order to address the gap in access to services for people living with or affected by HIV, including drug users, to tackle the issues of stigmatization and discrimination and to support increased capacity and resources for the provision of comprehensive prevention programmes and treatment care and related support services, in full compliance with the international drug control conventions and in accordance with national legislation, taking into account all relevant General Assembly resolutions and, when applicable, the WHO, UNODC, UNAIDS Technical Guide for Countries to Set Targets for Universal Access to HIV Prevention, Treatment and Care for Injecting Drug Users and in line with Economic and Social Council resolution 2009/6 of 24 July 2009;'
Much of the subsequent debate and negotiations today were held behind closed doors, and the country delegates hammered out wording they could all live with. This was the outcome.
The 'controversial' paragraph, as originally drafted, read:
'Concerned that the coverage of HIV prevention services is far from adequate in many countries with a high prevalence of injecting drug use and that HIV responses in many countries fail to meet international legal obligations to promote, protect and respect human rights'
The final agreement approved today split the paragraph in two:
'Concerned that the coverage of HIV prevention services is far from adequate in many countries with a high prevalence of injecting drug use.'
'Reaffirming that all countries should strive to achieve the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, as recognized in the relevant international instruments.'
Next the COW addressed three other disputed paragraphs.
Preambular paragraph 13, as originally drafted, read:
'Reaffirming the central importance of promoting the involvement of people living with or affected by HIV, including drug users, in shaping responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, as well as of working with civil society, a key partner in the global response to HIV/AIDS, including the response to the spread of HIV/AIDS through drug injection'
The final agreed text reads:
'Reaffirming the central importance of promoting meaningful involvement of people living with or affected by HIV and drug use, in shaping responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, as well as of working with civil society, a key partner in the global response to HIV/AIDS, including the response to the spread of HIV/AIDS through drug injection'
Next onto the operational paragraphs. The original text of operational paragraphs 2 and 3 read:
'Requests the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to support national authorities to align the policies and clarify the roles and responsibilities of relevant national entities, including drug control and public health agencies, as well as civil society, and to give its support to increasing capacity and resources for the provision of a comprehensive package of services for drug users, including risk prevention and harm reduction programmes in relation to HIV, in accordance with the WHO, UNODC, UNAIDS Technical Guide for Countries to Set Targets for Universal Access to HIV Prevention, Treatment and Care for Injecting Drug Users12 and the decision taken by the UNAIDS Programme Coordination Board in May 2009;'
'Also requests the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to significantly expand its work with all groups of civil society in order to address the gap in access to services for injecting drug users, to tackle the issues of stigmatization and discrimination and to support increased capacity and resources for the provision of a comprehensive package of services for injecting drug users, including risk prevention and harm reduction programmes in relation to HIV, as elaborated in the WHO, UNODC, UNAIDS Technical Guide for Countries to Set Targets for Universal Access to HIV Prevention, Treatment and Care for Injecting Drug Users and in line with Economic and Social Council resolution 2009/6 of 24 July 2009'
The final agreed text is as follows:
'Requests the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to support national authorities to align the policies and clarify the roles and responsibilities of relevant national entities, including drug control and public health agencies, as well as civil society, and to give its support to increasing capacity and resources for the provision of comprehensive prevention programmes and treatment care and related support services, in full compliance with the international drug control conventions and in accordance with national legislation, taking into account all relevant General Assembly resolutions and, when applicable, the WHO, UNODC, UNAIDS Technical Guide for Countries to Set Targets for Universal Access to HIV Prevention, Treatment and Care for Injecting Drug Users'
'Also requests the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to significantly expand its work with relevant groups of civil society in order to address the gap in access to services for people living with or affected by HIV, including drug users, to tackle the issues of stigmatization and discrimination and to support increased capacity and resources for the provision of comprehensive prevention programmes and treatment care and related support services, in full compliance with the international drug control conventions and in accordance with national legislation, taking into account all relevant General Assembly resolutions and, when applicable, the WHO, UNODC, UNAIDS Technical Guide for Countries to Set Targets for Universal Access to HIV Prevention, Treatment and Care for Injecting Drug Users and in line with Economic and Social Council resolution 2009/6 of 24 July 2009;'
CND Day 4- Division of policy analysis at UNODC introduces reducing the illicit supply of drugs and control of precursors
It has become increasingly critical to maintain the ability to launch backtracking investigations across borders to indentify the origins of the chemicals. Such investigations, will help tighten regulatory controls. Forensic intelligence must be made available to law enforcement personnel.
Specifically, the UNODC will support capacity building and platforms to support law enforcement operations. UNODC is developing a team to guide the global and regional technical assistance on precursors. The precursor team will remain in contact with other programmes, like the UNODC’s container control programme, to improve cross-sector analysis.
Forensic intelligence provides the basis for accurate information. UNODC will utilise its position to analyse precursors and substances used to manufacture narcotics.
Specifically, the UNODC will support capacity building and platforms to support law enforcement operations. UNODC is developing a team to guide the global and regional technical assistance on precursors. The precursor team will remain in contact with other programmes, like the UNODC’s container control programme, to improve cross-sector analysis.
Forensic intelligence provides the basis for accurate information. UNODC will utilise its position to analyse precursors and substances used to manufacture narcotics.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of France on drug trafficking and supply
I want to recall the importance in reducing the supply of drugs to make permanent the cooperation that we have internationally and regionally. We support a number of local and other programmes, including those from UNODC. We try to support dialogue and roundtables there. We support programmes in West Africa. This form of cooperation cannot be dissociated to reduction in demand, and NGO cooperation is necessary in that domain.
I also want to mention some resolutions, including the one dealing with precursors. It is important to monitor the control of precursors and I welcome the cooperation of the INCB in this domain.
Drugs also affect sustainable development, and threatens certain unstable regions. Reducing supply therefore also affects human dignity. It is logistical tools that need to be put in place, not only declarations of principles, with the support of specialised agencies in this field.
I also want to mention some resolutions, including the one dealing with precursors. It is important to monitor the control of precursors and I welcome the cooperation of the INCB in this domain.
Drugs also affect sustainable development, and threatens certain unstable regions. Reducing supply therefore also affects human dignity. It is logistical tools that need to be put in place, not only declarations of principles, with the support of specialised agencies in this field.
CND Day 4 – Algeria’s plenary statement on the world situation with regard to drug trafficking
Voiced its determined opposition against criminality in all its forms, particularly drug trafficking networks. In 2009, seized 114 tons of cannabis, an increase of 88 percent compared to the seizures in 2008. Noted that 42.5 tons of cannabis resin was seized in 15 operations. One particular seizure was bound for Belgium. In 2010 law enforcement services have been able to seized tons of cannabis
This has led to clashes with traffickers. Algeria has lost two policeman and two customs officers and suffered other casualties in 2009.
Algeria is trying not to neglect the drug problem locally and has arrested 3,800 local drug traffickers and brought them before the courts.
This has led to clashes with traffickers. Algeria has lost two policeman and two customs officers and suffered other casualties in 2009.
Algeria is trying not to neglect the drug problem locally and has arrested 3,800 local drug traffickers and brought them before the courts.
CND Day 4 – Canada’s plenary statement on the world situation with regard to drug trafficking
Canada shares global concerns regarding synthetic drugs and the movement of precursors. Canada is a source country for ecstasy and amphetamine. Recent initiatives are working on limiting the movement of synthetic drugs and diversion of precursors. The synthetic drug initiative works on deterrence, prevention and enforcement. Enforcement is taking focus breaking up clandestine labs. Deterrence works on legislative tools and the government supports mandatory minimum sentences for serious drug offences.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of the USA on drug trafficking and supply
Regarding document CN.7/2010/5: these are recommendations for subsidiary bodies of the CND. These bodies represent regions, not the entire body, and which are mostly interested in law enforcement. Recommendations from these groups should not be considered as being binding in any way. We ask the secretariat to make sure that reference to this recommendation be properly referred to as such. Most nations are targeted by traditional organised crime. To fight cyber-crime, technical assistance can be provided through a number of international bodies and there is no need for an international treaty.
Regarding document CN.7/2010/10: Part of the cocaine that transits in West Africa remains in the region to be consumed. The USA urges member states to support technical support for legislative and judicial reform for regions where cocaine is produced. In 2009, the USA provided counter-narcotics assistance to countries in Africa. UNODC efforts should also not be overlooked. The USA is pleased to be a major contributor to UNODC. We renew our support to UNODC and will expand our support to areas where capacity is lacking.
Regarding document CN.7/2010/10: Part of the cocaine that transits in West Africa remains in the region to be consumed. The USA urges member states to support technical support for legislative and judicial reform for regions where cocaine is produced. In 2009, the USA provided counter-narcotics assistance to countries in Africa. UNODC efforts should also not be overlooked. The USA is pleased to be a major contributor to UNODC. We renew our support to UNODC and will expand our support to areas where capacity is lacking.
CND Day 4 – Indonesia’s plenary statement on the world situation with regard to drug trafficking
Indonesia includes the national police, customs, food and drug control agencies, immigration and the national narcotics board in counter-drug strategy. Indonesia has expanded its investigations into clandestine labs along with intelligence gathering. With the growth in ATS abuse, the government has focused on precursors with other agencies. Drug manufacturers are being monitored and the licensing controls are being strengthened. The need for treatment intervention on ATS is a priority.
To deal with challenges international cooperation should be increased.
To deal with challenges international cooperation should be increased.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Colombia on drug trafficking and supply
The industry of drugs is the greatest source of funding for terrorist groups, and has major ratifications on crime rates, organised crime, gangs, and petty crimes, as well as human rights and international humanitarian law (kidnapping, detentions and murders). It also threatens the environment (pollution), health, social and family problems, it provokes poverty, inequality and hinders economic development.
Colombia remains committed to fight illicit organised crime and each links involved with drug trafficking, including through eradication and the destruction of illegal laboratories. We fight through seizures, preventing drugs from entering in our territory. We have made major efforts, and cultivation has reduced in the territory for the past 10 years.
We have lost 1,300 staff in the fight. The problem now is transnational, which affects political, economic, ideological and social aspects of every country. It is a difficult and dangerous task to identify new techniques to fight against these criminal groups. There is a growing trend to use private jets that use alternative routes. We need to make an effort to fight against these new trends. We must coordinate actions between governments bilaterally and internationally to curb the problem of drug trafficking. In 2009, we have already started to create these bilateral ties.
We have developed communication and awareness campaigns to reduce demand and consumption in Colombia. We want interactive education mechanisms. We need to make better use of the internet and other new means of communication on the damaging effect of the production and consumption of drugs as an interactive tool.
We thank the international community, especially the USA, for their support to fight against the drug problem in Colombia. I also wish to express our concern and need to continue with our commitment to develop the capacity to meet these challenges and tell the world that we can achieve a world free of drugs.
Colombia remains committed to fight illicit organised crime and each links involved with drug trafficking, including through eradication and the destruction of illegal laboratories. We fight through seizures, preventing drugs from entering in our territory. We have made major efforts, and cultivation has reduced in the territory for the past 10 years.
We have lost 1,300 staff in the fight. The problem now is transnational, which affects political, economic, ideological and social aspects of every country. It is a difficult and dangerous task to identify new techniques to fight against these criminal groups. There is a growing trend to use private jets that use alternative routes. We need to make an effort to fight against these new trends. We must coordinate actions between governments bilaterally and internationally to curb the problem of drug trafficking. In 2009, we have already started to create these bilateral ties.
We have developed communication and awareness campaigns to reduce demand and consumption in Colombia. We want interactive education mechanisms. We need to make better use of the internet and other new means of communication on the damaging effect of the production and consumption of drugs as an interactive tool.
We thank the international community, especially the USA, for their support to fight against the drug problem in Colombia. I also wish to express our concern and need to continue with our commitment to develop the capacity to meet these challenges and tell the world that we can achieve a world free of drugs.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Austria on drug trafficking and supply
Drug trafficking constitutes a threat to international peace and security. In order to fight drug trafficking and other organised transnational crime, international cooperation is needed. We welcome the work of UNODC in this domain. Progress has been made over the last year. However, the threat of drug trafficking still remains a challenge, especially in Afghanistan. We welcome the different programmes in Afghanistan, which also include regional judicial cooperation.
Illicit drug trafficking is tied to corruption, and UNODC is seeking to fight corruption in Afghanistan and assists the country with key legislation. We hope to continue to support these activities.
New academy to curb corruption: law enforcement officers, judicial staff, representatives from NGOs and international organisations. The implementation of the international legal instruments on corruption and organised crime is crucial. We should focus on a strong evaluation of the process in the near future.
Illicit drug trafficking is tied to corruption, and UNODC is seeking to fight corruption in Afghanistan and assists the country with key legislation. We hope to continue to support these activities.
New academy to curb corruption: law enforcement officers, judicial staff, representatives from NGOs and international organisations. The implementation of the international legal instruments on corruption and organised crime is crucial. We should focus on a strong evaluation of the process in the near future.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of the Republic of Korea on drug trafficking and supply
Korea has recently been used as a transhipment route for drugs and precursors. Greater attention is needed to oppose this new trend. We have focused on preventing drugs from entering the territory. It is essential to establish and maintain close collaborative cooperation to curb trafficking. Korea has controlled smuggling attempts through exchange of information with 18 countries. We have successfully broken attempts to smuggle drugs via our territory. We reiterate the essential role of regional and international cooperation to counter drug trafficking. Be assured that we will support this process of cooperation.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Venezuela on drug trafficking and supply
Activities that Bolivia has undertaken according to new routes and trends. Venezuela has intensified its efforts to tackle drug trafficking, seizures were done by checking information and collaborating. In addition, we have 10 radars in operation, which makes it easier to identify planes that do not have authorisation to land.
Reduction in supply is not limited to production, but also to what is passed through ports and airports. This includes transit through third countries. Through protocols, we are seeking to force planes to land to be checked. We must also point out that we are destroying unauthorised landing flights. Our republic has installed equipment for scanning bodies to prevent trafficking using the human bodies.
We have conducted a government study on drug use among youth. We presented draft resolution L17 to protect youth from this danger.
Reduction in supply is not limited to production, but also to what is passed through ports and airports. This includes transit through third countries. Through protocols, we are seeking to force planes to land to be checked. We must also point out that we are destroying unauthorised landing flights. Our republic has installed equipment for scanning bodies to prevent trafficking using the human bodies.
We have conducted a government study on drug use among youth. We presented draft resolution L17 to protect youth from this danger.
CND Day 4 – Sri Lanka’s plenary statement on the world situation with regard to drug trafficking
The campaign for the complete abstinence from drugs is the cornerstone of the national strategy. Investigations and intelligence are increasing. Since the early 90s the insurgent group, the LTTE, was involved in trafficking. The weakening of the LTTE has limited these networks though the speaker alleged that there are reports that there is some continued drug trafficking activity by the group. Sri Lanka is working with NGOs and government partners to fight drug trafficking.
CND Day 4 – Japan’s plenary statement on the world situation with regard to drug trafficking
Japan highlighted drug problem shared by many states present – ATS. Methamphetamine and Ice are the most commonly used drugs in Japan. In the past methamphetamine had been smuggled from other Asian countries. Recently it is coming from the Middle East and Africa. However, smuggling of ecstasy from Europe is declining.
To facilitate international cooperation Japan hosts a number of conferences. These help promote information exchange and coordinate investigations with foreign counterparts.
To facilitate international cooperation Japan hosts a number of conferences. These help promote information exchange and coordinate investigations with foreign counterparts.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Spain on behalf of the EU on drug trafficking and supply
Illicit drugs are easily accessible. Transnational organised groups intensify their actions and capacities, using new technologies. Further enhancement of international cooperation is crucial to tackle this issue. We offer our unconditional commitment to respect for human rights principles, but also seek to act against illicit drug trafficking.
EU Plan of Action 2009-2012: integrated, multi-disciplinary and balanced approach, which builds on the existing framework, but is also based on lessons learned.
One aim is to respond to emerging threats. We welcome the Secretariat’s report on drug trafficking. The global drug situation continues to pose challenges and requires a more universal and cooperative response. Data and information collection, reporting and sharing is a crucial element for that response. Quality data and sufficient resources, as well as training for law enforcement agencies are very important in that sense.
Afghanistan records the highest production of opium in the world, although it seems to have decreased over the 2009 year. The situation, however, might experience setbacks. The EU expresses its concern on the high level of opium production and trafficking and the security threats it has at the regional and international levels. We need to continue assisting neighbouring transit countries, on the principle of shared responsibility. We call upon the international community to increase international and regional cooperation, including through the monitoring of trends in synthetic drugs. We hope that the international community will agree on the best possible solution to this threat. We welcome the 2009 survey on opium cultivation in Asia. We are aware of the vulnerability of these regions and stress the need for cooperation in these regions.
The EU reaffirms the need for further cooperation to combat the increase in cocaine trafficking. The EU develops joint efforts to support regional law enforcement capacities, notably in Africa.
Synthetic drug manufacturing and trafficking is also a great concern to the EU. We support pre-export notifications and data sharing to avoid diversion of precursors. We stress the importance of respect of human dignity human rights, international law the rule of law and the principle of proportionality.
The EU’s main progress has been made in police and justice cooperation. The EU arrest warrant and organised crime threat assessment contain many references to drugs and crime. A police data information and intelligence mechanism is also being developed. We support regional meetings that share experiences and lessons learned on law enforcement strategies to curb transnational crime. The recommendations adopted at regional meetings tend to make a reference to the internet and other electronic media on drug trafficking, and the need for exchange of information, interregional cooperation.
The EU recognises the vulnerability of West and North Africa for transnational organised crime. We encourage UNODC to support the ECOWAS regional programme in the region.
The global efforts will not be effective in the absence of efforts to respond to socio-economic factors. Emphasis should be placed on countering poverty and marginalisation of those forced to produce illicit drugs.
EU Plan of Action 2009-2012: integrated, multi-disciplinary and balanced approach, which builds on the existing framework, but is also based on lessons learned.
One aim is to respond to emerging threats. We welcome the Secretariat’s report on drug trafficking. The global drug situation continues to pose challenges and requires a more universal and cooperative response. Data and information collection, reporting and sharing is a crucial element for that response. Quality data and sufficient resources, as well as training for law enforcement agencies are very important in that sense.
Afghanistan records the highest production of opium in the world, although it seems to have decreased over the 2009 year. The situation, however, might experience setbacks. The EU expresses its concern on the high level of opium production and trafficking and the security threats it has at the regional and international levels. We need to continue assisting neighbouring transit countries, on the principle of shared responsibility. We call upon the international community to increase international and regional cooperation, including through the monitoring of trends in synthetic drugs. We hope that the international community will agree on the best possible solution to this threat. We welcome the 2009 survey on opium cultivation in Asia. We are aware of the vulnerability of these regions and stress the need for cooperation in these regions.
The EU reaffirms the need for further cooperation to combat the increase in cocaine trafficking. The EU develops joint efforts to support regional law enforcement capacities, notably in Africa.
Synthetic drug manufacturing and trafficking is also a great concern to the EU. We support pre-export notifications and data sharing to avoid diversion of precursors. We stress the importance of respect of human dignity human rights, international law the rule of law and the principle of proportionality.
The EU’s main progress has been made in police and justice cooperation. The EU arrest warrant and organised crime threat assessment contain many references to drugs and crime. A police data information and intelligence mechanism is also being developed. We support regional meetings that share experiences and lessons learned on law enforcement strategies to curb transnational crime. The recommendations adopted at regional meetings tend to make a reference to the internet and other electronic media on drug trafficking, and the need for exchange of information, interregional cooperation.
The EU recognises the vulnerability of West and North Africa for transnational organised crime. We encourage UNODC to support the ECOWAS regional programme in the region.
The global efforts will not be effective in the absence of efforts to respond to socio-economic factors. Emphasis should be placed on countering poverty and marginalisation of those forced to produce illicit drugs.
CND Day 4 - UNODC introduced the world situation with regard to drug trafficking
UNODC opened the debate with a detailed overview of the global drug situation with regard to opiates, cannabis, cocaine and ATS.
Side event: Sub-regional school-based drug abuse trends study in 6 Latin-American countries
This presentation from the UNODC Peru Country Office and countries involved provided an overview of a quantitative and qualitative project conducted in six countries in Latin America: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Peru and Uruguay. About 70,000 students aged between 13 and 17 were interviewed.
Results:
- Alcohol consumption: it is the most consumed drug, with 7 out of 10 students having tried it at least once in their lifetimes, and 1 in 10 having tried it for the first time before reaching 15 years of age. No difference was observed regarding alcohol use across gender.
- Tobacco consumption: There is little perception of the risks associated with tobacco consumption. About 20% of students consume tobacco, and women seem to consume it more than men in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay.
- Inhalant consumption: inhalants are rarely used in these six countries. There is a uniform distribution of this substance throughout the countries studied, and the age of first consumption is lower than those for first consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
- Marijuana: between 0.7 and 7.5% of the population uses marijuana (whereas the world percentage is at 3.9%). It is the drug most used in the region, especially among the youth: 10% of the students interviewed had already used marijuana at least once. Marijuana is mostly used by men, but the difference of use by gender seems to be diminishing over the years. Perception of the risks associated with marijuana use and the easiness of access are determinant for marijuana use.
- Cocaine: between 0.1 and 2.7% of people use cocaine in the six countries studied (the world proportion of people using cocaine worldwide is of 0.27%), and is the second most used illicit drug. 3.7% of the students involved in this study reported having used cocaine at least once, and 40% of them affirmed having used it before reaching 15 years of age. The high perception of risks associated with cocaine use and easiness of access seems to be a protective factor for cocaine use.
- Unprocessed cocaine: prevalence of 1.5% among the population, most of whom come from the poorest and most vulnerable segments of society. 50% of unprocessed cocaine users tried it for the first time before reaching 15 years of age, and most of them are men.
- Poly-drug use: a third of drug users in 2009 also used other drugs.
Conclusions: It appears that the use of tobacco or alcohol increases by 10 to 20 times the possibility of illicit drug use. Alcohol and tobacco prevention would therefore be a useful way to start with the prevention of illicit drugs.
Between 2005 and 2007, alcohol use increased, while tobacco use decreased. Regarding illicit drugs, cocaine use increased, but the use of marijuana, unprocessed cocaine and inhalants has diminished.
Recommendations:
- Disseminate information
- Incorporate new dimensions for analysis
- Generate more information on unprocessed cocaine
- Evaluate new trends.
Results:
- Alcohol consumption: it is the most consumed drug, with 7 out of 10 students having tried it at least once in their lifetimes, and 1 in 10 having tried it for the first time before reaching 15 years of age. No difference was observed regarding alcohol use across gender.
- Tobacco consumption: There is little perception of the risks associated with tobacco consumption. About 20% of students consume tobacco, and women seem to consume it more than men in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay.
- Inhalant consumption: inhalants are rarely used in these six countries. There is a uniform distribution of this substance throughout the countries studied, and the age of first consumption is lower than those for first consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
- Marijuana: between 0.7 and 7.5% of the population uses marijuana (whereas the world percentage is at 3.9%). It is the drug most used in the region, especially among the youth: 10% of the students interviewed had already used marijuana at least once. Marijuana is mostly used by men, but the difference of use by gender seems to be diminishing over the years. Perception of the risks associated with marijuana use and the easiness of access are determinant for marijuana use.
- Cocaine: between 0.1 and 2.7% of people use cocaine in the six countries studied (the world proportion of people using cocaine worldwide is of 0.27%), and is the second most used illicit drug. 3.7% of the students involved in this study reported having used cocaine at least once, and 40% of them affirmed having used it before reaching 15 years of age. The high perception of risks associated with cocaine use and easiness of access seems to be a protective factor for cocaine use.
- Unprocessed cocaine: prevalence of 1.5% among the population, most of whom come from the poorest and most vulnerable segments of society. 50% of unprocessed cocaine users tried it for the first time before reaching 15 years of age, and most of them are men.
- Poly-drug use: a third of drug users in 2009 also used other drugs.
Conclusions: It appears that the use of tobacco or alcohol increases by 10 to 20 times the possibility of illicit drug use. Alcohol and tobacco prevention would therefore be a useful way to start with the prevention of illicit drugs.
Between 2005 and 2007, alcohol use increased, while tobacco use decreased. Regarding illicit drugs, cocaine use increased, but the use of marijuana, unprocessed cocaine and inhalants has diminished.
Recommendations:
- Disseminate information
- Incorporate new dimensions for analysis
- Generate more information on unprocessed cocaine
- Evaluate new trends.
CND Day 4 – Pakistan’s plenary statement on drug demand reduction
Pakistan is a transit country experiencing major spillover effect. There are an estimated 5-million drug users of which 4.5-million are hashish users and more than roughly 600,000 opiate users.
Pakistan has experienced low prevalence of HIV but has a high risk. Surveys have shown increased HIV prevalence among IDUs.
The use of hashish and synthetic drugs among the affluent is on the rise. A fresh survey is being considered to better understand the prevalence of this trend.
Prevention and treatment are main pillars of Pakistan’s strategy and a new drug policy will be announced soon. The city of Lahore is being targeted to become drug-free by 2020. To do this Pakistan will need the support of the international community.
Pakistan has decided to take on a study of the benefits of harm reduction before considering whether to bringing in the legislative reforms domestically. Inviting comments on best practices from other countries and is willing to undertake a pilot project on OST locally.
In order to extricate themselves from quagmire of drugs the international community needs to join hands. The existing support but there is a dire need to do more to increase the capacities of countries in the region.
Pakistan has experienced low prevalence of HIV but has a high risk. Surveys have shown increased HIV prevalence among IDUs.
The use of hashish and synthetic drugs among the affluent is on the rise. A fresh survey is being considered to better understand the prevalence of this trend.
Prevention and treatment are main pillars of Pakistan’s strategy and a new drug policy will be announced soon. The city of Lahore is being targeted to become drug-free by 2020. To do this Pakistan will need the support of the international community.
Pakistan has decided to take on a study of the benefits of harm reduction before considering whether to bringing in the legislative reforms domestically. Inviting comments on best practices from other countries and is willing to undertake a pilot project on OST locally.
In order to extricate themselves from quagmire of drugs the international community needs to join hands. The existing support but there is a dire need to do more to increase the capacities of countries in the region.
CND Day 4 – United Arab Emirates’ plenary statement on drug demand reduction
Demand reduction is a key part of the UAE’s strategy. Numerous centres have been set up to treat the drug addicted and the necessary techniques. Post-prison release drug treatment programmes can last up to two years.
UAE has made drug education a part of the school curricula and organised seminars for people working in these treatment centres.
The federal drug fighting law is an opportunity for those who take drugs to avoid penalties by seeking voluntary help.
UAE has made drug education a part of the school curricula and organised seminars for people working in these treatment centres.
The federal drug fighting law is an opportunity for those who take drugs to avoid penalties by seeking voluntary help.
CND Day 4 – Zambia’s plenary statement on drug demand reduction
Cocaine and heroin are reported to come into the country from Latin America. Ephedrine comes in from the Middle East. Zambia has instituted a number of security measures at airports in response.
Besides interdiction, Zambia has been working to reduce drug demand as well. Trying to develop a treatment centre. The land has been secured and the country is undertaking counselling programmes.
Besides interdiction, Zambia has been working to reduce drug demand as well. Trying to develop a treatment centre. The land has been secured and the country is undertaking counselling programmes.
CND Day 4 – Azerbaijan plenary statement on drug demand reduction
There are large amounts are trafficked through Azerbaijan and Iran. The country has a boundary that is attractive to traffickers. The country has actively cracked down and interdicted large scale seizures.
Recommended alternatives approaches and said there should be a favouring of harm reduction measures. Unfortunately they do not have adequate data. So it’s very important to have annual reports and data output. Better data might instruct the state to know when and how better interventions might be carried out.
Recommended alternatives approaches and said there should be a favouring of harm reduction measures. Unfortunately they do not have adequate data. So it’s very important to have annual reports and data output. Better data might instruct the state to know when and how better interventions might be carried out.
CND Day 4 – Indonesia’s plenary statement on drug demand reduction
There has been a steady increase among various population segments in Indonesia. To cope with this problem in the area of drug demand reduction, Indonesia focuses on comprehensive and integrated strategies.
At the national level, prevention as a first strategy should be conducted with wide partnerships. Dissemination of information on drug abusing risks should be circulated widely – particularly to high-risk groups. Indonesia has partnered with the media on raising awareness.
The National Narcotic Board in collaboration with NGOs has opened a new treatment and rehabilitation facility on an island for 200 patients and has an MOU with US-based organisation to enhance staff. The facility will serve as a research facility and include job-training programmes.
In total Indonesia has 345 treatment centres including all general hospitals. These efforts are incorporated with other measures by other government agencies.
The new narcotics law stated that minors under 18 reported by parents for treatment and rehabilitation wil not be penalised. Drug abusers over 18 who report themselves two times will not be penalised. Judges can refer drug abuse cases to compulsory treatment.
Indonesia supports the view that all drug demand measures should be consistent with public health, human rights and national laws. Drug demand reduction should be placed in the mainstream of people’s welfare and the international community should put more emphasis on this.
At the national level, prevention as a first strategy should be conducted with wide partnerships. Dissemination of information on drug abusing risks should be circulated widely – particularly to high-risk groups. Indonesia has partnered with the media on raising awareness.
The National Narcotic Board in collaboration with NGOs has opened a new treatment and rehabilitation facility on an island for 200 patients and has an MOU with US-based organisation to enhance staff. The facility will serve as a research facility and include job-training programmes.
In total Indonesia has 345 treatment centres including all general hospitals. These efforts are incorporated with other measures by other government agencies.
The new narcotics law stated that minors under 18 reported by parents for treatment and rehabilitation wil not be penalised. Drug abusers over 18 who report themselves two times will not be penalised. Judges can refer drug abuse cases to compulsory treatment.
Indonesia supports the view that all drug demand measures should be consistent with public health, human rights and national laws. Drug demand reduction should be placed in the mainstream of people’s welfare and the international community should put more emphasis on this.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of the Eurasian Harm Reduction Network and Youth Rise on drug dependence treatment
There are many problems regarding young people who use drugs and their access to treatment. The age of first use of drugs in some countries is 13.
In Cambodia and a number of other countries, there is use of torture, and cruel and inhumane treatment.
There is a lack of efficient drug treatment in Easter Europe and Central Asia, which is home to a large number of IDUs infected by HIV. There is also an over-use of prison for low-level drug offenders. The development of opioid substitution therapy recently in a large number of countries is a sign towards democracy and human rights approaches.
We are also deeply concerned about the situation in some countries of the region, such as in Uzbekistan, or in Russia where substitution substances are still prohibited by law.
Youth Rise and EHRN call on governments to prioritise health for drug treatment therapy, remove legal and regulatory barriers, protect the right to privacy for young people, and enable the meaningful involvement of young people in the design of drug treatment programme quality and standards.
In Cambodia and a number of other countries, there is use of torture, and cruel and inhumane treatment.
There is a lack of efficient drug treatment in Easter Europe and Central Asia, which is home to a large number of IDUs infected by HIV. There is also an over-use of prison for low-level drug offenders. The development of opioid substitution therapy recently in a large number of countries is a sign towards democracy and human rights approaches.
We are also deeply concerned about the situation in some countries of the region, such as in Uzbekistan, or in Russia where substitution substances are still prohibited by law.
Youth Rise and EHRN call on governments to prioritise health for drug treatment therapy, remove legal and regulatory barriers, protect the right to privacy for young people, and enable the meaningful involvement of young people in the design of drug treatment programme quality and standards.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of China on drug demand reduction
Over the past few years, a series of measures was undertaken to curb the spread of heroin, which is now under controlled. The problem of synthetic drugs is growing rapidly and there is a large demand. By the end of December 2009: 1.32 million registers of drugs, among them, 74% are heroin users, 60% are under the age of 25. As for synthesized drugs, they have large followers among young people in large and medium-sized cities.
We have emphasized primary importance on prevention and education to enhance awareness on drugs. We have promoted the Anti-Drug Law in that sense. We have organised events to ban drugs and carry out such education in schools, communities, working units, families, countryside. We target particularly high-risk groups, young communities.
We promote a humane approach to drug prevention: treatment and rehabilitation, community-based institutions of detoxification. 81 detoxification and rehabilitation services have been established in the country for opium related drugs. 668 methadone maintenance programmes provide clinic services to drug users, and we exempt treatment costs for people with financial difficulties. All of these are promoted in terms of preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS. Substance treatment is a compromise approach, and to a certain extent a ‘harm reduction’ approach. But we have some issues regarding harm reduction.
Through the measures conducted, new users of heroin are on the decline, and the heroin market is shrinking in China, while the harms done to the community are also decreasing.
We have emphasized primary importance on prevention and education to enhance awareness on drugs. We have promoted the Anti-Drug Law in that sense. We have organised events to ban drugs and carry out such education in schools, communities, working units, families, countryside. We target particularly high-risk groups, young communities.
We promote a humane approach to drug prevention: treatment and rehabilitation, community-based institutions of detoxification. 81 detoxification and rehabilitation services have been established in the country for opium related drugs. 668 methadone maintenance programmes provide clinic services to drug users, and we exempt treatment costs for people with financial difficulties. All of these are promoted in terms of preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS. Substance treatment is a compromise approach, and to a certain extent a ‘harm reduction’ approach. But we have some issues regarding harm reduction.
Through the measures conducted, new users of heroin are on the decline, and the heroin market is shrinking in China, while the harms done to the community are also decreasing.
CND Day 4 – Switzerland plenary statement on drug demand reduction
Last year met at high-level segment to reaffirm support for fight against drugs and adopt a political declaration and action plan. But what have we actually done to stem demand reduction? IN Switzerland a health survey is conducted every five years where young people are asked about their use of illicit drugs.
Use of illicit drugs has been stable. Twenty percent said yes and in most cases the drug in question was cannabis. Recently however a spike has been witnessed in cocaine use. Almost twice as many men as women admitted to using cocaine. Not a major increase in the use of heroin.
Pennies for prevention are better than pounds for cure. Switzerland is working on research and intervention projects and the initiatives that are developed will be circulated. Secondary prevention programmes including early intervention projects have been developed.
Treatment is a second pillar for drug policy. Switzerland is working to improve the quality of substitution therapy. A quality standard has been developed requiring the certification for outpatient and inpatient treatment. However, the state ensures that drug dependent individuals have access to the basic services offered by the national health care system.
The last and financially least supported, though no less important to the Swiss drug demand reduction strategy, is on harm reduction. This includes NSPs, injection rooms and other programmes. This can reduce risky behaviour and the spread of disease.
Prisons remain high-risk areas. A project has been set up to combat the prevalence of infectious diseases in prison. Would strongly support the collaboration of member states both within the CND and the PCB on exchange of information and coordination.
Use of illicit drugs has been stable. Twenty percent said yes and in most cases the drug in question was cannabis. Recently however a spike has been witnessed in cocaine use. Almost twice as many men as women admitted to using cocaine. Not a major increase in the use of heroin.
Pennies for prevention are better than pounds for cure. Switzerland is working on research and intervention projects and the initiatives that are developed will be circulated. Secondary prevention programmes including early intervention projects have been developed.
Treatment is a second pillar for drug policy. Switzerland is working to improve the quality of substitution therapy. A quality standard has been developed requiring the certification for outpatient and inpatient treatment. However, the state ensures that drug dependent individuals have access to the basic services offered by the national health care system.
The last and financially least supported, though no less important to the Swiss drug demand reduction strategy, is on harm reduction. This includes NSPs, injection rooms and other programmes. This can reduce risky behaviour and the spread of disease.
Prisons remain high-risk areas. A project has been set up to combat the prevalence of infectious diseases in prison. Would strongly support the collaboration of member states both within the CND and the PCB on exchange of information and coordination.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Mexico on drug demand reduction
The Mexican strategy emphasizes on young people and street children. Mexico has stepped up its addiction prevention programme: we focus on the development of the life of the smallest, and try to have early detection measures. We built 320 networks ‘Nueva Vida’, and juvenile integration centres in difficult areas of Mexico. We are designing new methods to investigate substance abuse and risk factors.
The misuse of substances is a serious issue in terms of public health and has negative impact on families, schools and society at large. We have devoted many resources to drug demand reduction: activities and programmes to provide research and prevention, treatment and rehabilitation and raise awareness and train professionals to reach the population at large.
Mexico is pleased to have introduced the resolution on young people and children and hope that our recommendations will be taken into consideration.
The misuse of substances is a serious issue in terms of public health and has negative impact on families, schools and society at large. We have devoted many resources to drug demand reduction: activities and programmes to provide research and prevention, treatment and rehabilitation and raise awareness and train professionals to reach the population at large.
Mexico is pleased to have introduced the resolution on young people and children and hope that our recommendations will be taken into consideration.
CND Day 4 – Thailand’s plenary statement on drug demand reduction:
Thailand is engaged in ongoing prevention activities targeting various populations including youth in schools, workers in various sectors and so on. Both government and civil society sectors are engaged in these activities.
The use of ATS is on the rise in Asia. With increasing use of ATS, the Thai government is aware of the urgency to disrupt this trend. The Thai government has launched several campaigns to raise awareness and target specific vulnerable populations. Thailand believes that drug demand reduction is most effective with participation from NGOs and the civil society sector.
Thailand fully supports the UNODCs programmes on data collection. Thailand believes that the accurate assessment of the situation on the ground will lead to the best policies.
Regarding harm reduction, various agencies have supported these efforts. Thailand has increasingly worked with international agencies and networks including the UNODC, UNAIDS, and The Asian Harm Reduction Network. Has also developed an MOU on harm reduction policies between agencies.
We realise the importance of mainstreaming policy. The department of public health ensures that drug users will have the right to access treatment of good quality.
The use of ATS is on the rise in Asia. With increasing use of ATS, the Thai government is aware of the urgency to disrupt this trend. The Thai government has launched several campaigns to raise awareness and target specific vulnerable populations. Thailand believes that drug demand reduction is most effective with participation from NGOs and the civil society sector.
Thailand fully supports the UNODCs programmes on data collection. Thailand believes that the accurate assessment of the situation on the ground will lead to the best policies.
Regarding harm reduction, various agencies have supported these efforts. Thailand has increasingly worked with international agencies and networks including the UNODC, UNAIDS, and The Asian Harm Reduction Network. Has also developed an MOU on harm reduction policies between agencies.
We realise the importance of mainstreaming policy. The department of public health ensures that drug users will have the right to access treatment of good quality.
CND Day 4 – USA’s plenary statement on drug demand reduction
The US strongly supports the collection of trends and it is essential that timely and reliable data be analysed for proper assessments. Data collection and analysis can highlight deadly new drug trends, such as use of ATS or hallucinogens. Heavy drug users in the US consume the majority of drugs, therefore tailoring treatment to this population could have a significant impact on the drug market. From emergency care centres to treatment providers, this is essential.
It is very important to address drugged driving. While citizens have a clear understanding of the dangers of drunk driving, drug driving is far less high profile and the speaker urged states the draw attention to this problem.
There have been challenges addressing marijuana use and use of prescription drugs. These two are the top two for initial drug use.
The speaker emphasised the US’s profound commitment to prevention, treatment and recovery support services. Roughly 5 billion of federal government funds are used for prevention and the federal government estimates that when other sources are included roughly $20 billion USD annually is spent on prevention.
The US does not use the term harm reduction because it means many different things to different people. The term inspires passionate debate even when people agree with another on initiatives. The speaker argued that it is sometimes used to cloak legalisation and decriminalisation which the US does not support.
The US supports needle and syringe exchange programmes. In conjunction with outreach and counselling, it can be effective in bringing people to treatment services. Drug addiction is a treatable chronic disease. However, the US does not support drug consumption room. Such differences in policies are one reason the US does not support the term harm reduction.
Using the best evidence and experience available, the US will analyse strategy and objectives to gauge their effectiveness. Policies and practices such as NSPs, OSTs, access to ARVs, prevention of STIs, targeted information and education to IDUs, prevention diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis, prevention diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis are all projects and programmes the US supports
It is very important to address drugged driving. While citizens have a clear understanding of the dangers of drunk driving, drug driving is far less high profile and the speaker urged states the draw attention to this problem.
There have been challenges addressing marijuana use and use of prescription drugs. These two are the top two for initial drug use.
The speaker emphasised the US’s profound commitment to prevention, treatment and recovery support services. Roughly 5 billion of federal government funds are used for prevention and the federal government estimates that when other sources are included roughly $20 billion USD annually is spent on prevention.
The US does not use the term harm reduction because it means many different things to different people. The term inspires passionate debate even when people agree with another on initiatives. The speaker argued that it is sometimes used to cloak legalisation and decriminalisation which the US does not support.
The US supports needle and syringe exchange programmes. In conjunction with outreach and counselling, it can be effective in bringing people to treatment services. Drug addiction is a treatable chronic disease. However, the US does not support drug consumption room. Such differences in policies are one reason the US does not support the term harm reduction.
Using the best evidence and experience available, the US will analyse strategy and objectives to gauge their effectiveness. Policies and practices such as NSPs, OSTs, access to ARVs, prevention of STIs, targeted information and education to IDUs, prevention diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis, prevention diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis are all projects and programmes the US supports
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Argentina on drug demand reduction
Argentina has developed a comprehensive national strategic work plan in terms of demand reduction:
- We make society aware of prevention programmes in recreational and sports areas, at schools for youths, in line with the specificities of the community.
- We bring up to date prevention programmes for misuse of drugs in rural areas
- We stimulate community interventions in vulnerable areas.
- We develop awareness raising programmes and means of communication, through public health programmes.
- We work with education communities: ‘quiero ser’ programme in many provinces, including students, teachers and parents.
- We try to include young people in these programmes, especially in the sport arena (soccer).
- Labour environment: we promote participation and commitment of businessmen and workers in public and private companies.
- Training and revamping programmes for professionals and academics.
In the demand reduction area, we have involved various ministries to give a comprehensive response to alcohol and drug use. Prevention must be built every day, everywhere.
- We make society aware of prevention programmes in recreational and sports areas, at schools for youths, in line with the specificities of the community.
- We bring up to date prevention programmes for misuse of drugs in rural areas
- We stimulate community interventions in vulnerable areas.
- We develop awareness raising programmes and means of communication, through public health programmes.
- We work with education communities: ‘quiero ser’ programme in many provinces, including students, teachers and parents.
- We try to include young people in these programmes, especially in the sport arena (soccer).
- Labour environment: we promote participation and commitment of businessmen and workers in public and private companies.
- Training and revamping programmes for professionals and academics.
In the demand reduction area, we have involved various ministries to give a comprehensive response to alcohol and drug use. Prevention must be built every day, everywhere.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of the Netherlands on drug demand reduction
Preventing drug use by pursuing discouragement is a key principle. Preventing drug use can also prevent the consequences of drug use among the population and young people. We must realise that prevention is key to the debate. We have common responsibility to adopt an humane approach and provide appropriate treatment.
Addiction is a chronic by treatable health disorder. This notion will have far-reaching consequences on what approach we adopt towards drug addicts. Abstinence is not always realistic in the short and long term, and it should be acknowledge. But we can assist and guide drug dependent people on the road to, hopefully, recovery. In the meantime, we can help them avoid the risks associated to drug use.
Some regions and countries call this approach harm reduction, although some have objections to this wording. Harm reduction is a dire necessity. It is about saving people’s lives, not about legalisation of drug use. We know that this approach works.
As UNODC, WHO and UNAIDS have pointed out, NSP and substitution is key to preventing HIV infections among IDUs. We must protect health, safety and welfare of our citizens.
This new notion necessitates a paradigm shift. I make a plea for a pragmatic, flexible and evidence-based drug policy. By working together, we can make a difference, and the Netherlands will make a full contribution.
Addiction is a chronic by treatable health disorder. This notion will have far-reaching consequences on what approach we adopt towards drug addicts. Abstinence is not always realistic in the short and long term, and it should be acknowledge. But we can assist and guide drug dependent people on the road to, hopefully, recovery. In the meantime, we can help them avoid the risks associated to drug use.
Some regions and countries call this approach harm reduction, although some have objections to this wording. Harm reduction is a dire necessity. It is about saving people’s lives, not about legalisation of drug use. We know that this approach works.
As UNODC, WHO and UNAIDS have pointed out, NSP and substitution is key to preventing HIV infections among IDUs. We must protect health, safety and welfare of our citizens.
This new notion necessitates a paradigm shift. I make a plea for a pragmatic, flexible and evidence-based drug policy. By working together, we can make a difference, and the Netherlands will make a full contribution.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of the UK/INPUD on drug demand reduction
This is the full test of the statement:
'Thank you chairperson and colleagues.
The UK would like to align itself with the position of the Presidency of the European Union.
Before I start I would like to note the marked improvements in the World Drugs Report and we look forward to continuing progress in data collection and presentation. I am pleased to speak to you as a member of the UK delegation. The UK has a commitment to the inclusion of all stakeholders in its international development work whether at country level or on the global stage. This is why I have been included in the UK team as an NGO member for INPUD - the International Network of People who Use Drugs. I am grateful to DfID for once again giving INPUD the space to voice the concerns and interests of people who use drugs in the Commission on Narcotic Drugs.
INPUD has been on a steep learning curve over the last year developing our understanding of the global architecture and models of international development and we are now very much engaged with the UN family and the Global Fund. Further, we can more genuinely claim to be a global network of people who use drugs, albeit one that is still very much under development.
Significantly, INPUD has joined the UNAIDS Programme Co-ordinating Board NGO Delegation, which has allowed us, a key population affected by HIV, to have a voice at the top table where the world plans its response to the HIV epidemic. We are now actively working with both arms of UNDOC in relation to the work of the HIV team and with regard to the TreatNet and the Effective Treatment Programmes. While UNODC and INPUD continue to acknowledge our different positions on drug law reform, this has not prevented us from developing mature and respectful relationships at country, regional and global levels around our shared objectives in the arenas of public health, drug treatment and human rights.
The UK has extensive experience of deploying pragmatic harm reduction responses that have seen the UK address and contain its HIV epidemic. These are community based responses that UK has adopted at a national level and that are now well recognized on the global stage. The UK is committed to pursuing policy alignment between between the UNAIDS PCB and here at the Commission on Narcotic Drugs on this issue. In the view of the UK this is crucial to ensuring system wide coherence around one of the key public health crises of our time, and supporting UNODC in its role as lead agency on HIV and injecting drug use.
UNAIDS PCB has drawn attention to the significant challenge posed by the criminalisation of key populations. Criminal laws and policing practices that fail to take account of public health priorities can act as a barrier to HIV prevention. INPUD and our members at country level know and experience this all too well. Responding to this challenge is no easy task and will require the engagement of all stakeholders in a respectful and open partnership. This has to include police and prosecutors, doctors and front line workers, policy makers and of course people who use drugs. INPUD stands ready to support the continued engagement of our organisations and community in these processes.'
'Thank you chairperson and colleagues.
The UK would like to align itself with the position of the Presidency of the European Union.
Before I start I would like to note the marked improvements in the World Drugs Report and we look forward to continuing progress in data collection and presentation. I am pleased to speak to you as a member of the UK delegation. The UK has a commitment to the inclusion of all stakeholders in its international development work whether at country level or on the global stage. This is why I have been included in the UK team as an NGO member for INPUD - the International Network of People who Use Drugs. I am grateful to DfID for once again giving INPUD the space to voice the concerns and interests of people who use drugs in the Commission on Narcotic Drugs.
INPUD has been on a steep learning curve over the last year developing our understanding of the global architecture and models of international development and we are now very much engaged with the UN family and the Global Fund. Further, we can more genuinely claim to be a global network of people who use drugs, albeit one that is still very much under development.
Significantly, INPUD has joined the UNAIDS Programme Co-ordinating Board NGO Delegation, which has allowed us, a key population affected by HIV, to have a voice at the top table where the world plans its response to the HIV epidemic. We are now actively working with both arms of UNDOC in relation to the work of the HIV team and with regard to the TreatNet and the Effective Treatment Programmes. While UNODC and INPUD continue to acknowledge our different positions on drug law reform, this has not prevented us from developing mature and respectful relationships at country, regional and global levels around our shared objectives in the arenas of public health, drug treatment and human rights.
The UK has extensive experience of deploying pragmatic harm reduction responses that have seen the UK address and contain its HIV epidemic. These are community based responses that UK has adopted at a national level and that are now well recognized on the global stage. The UK is committed to pursuing policy alignment between between the UNAIDS PCB and here at the Commission on Narcotic Drugs on this issue. In the view of the UK this is crucial to ensuring system wide coherence around one of the key public health crises of our time, and supporting UNODC in its role as lead agency on HIV and injecting drug use.
UNAIDS PCB has drawn attention to the significant challenge posed by the criminalisation of key populations. Criminal laws and policing practices that fail to take account of public health priorities can act as a barrier to HIV prevention. INPUD and our members at country level know and experience this all too well. Responding to this challenge is no easy task and will require the engagement of all stakeholders in a respectful and open partnership. This has to include police and prosecutors, doctors and front line workers, policy makers and of course people who use drugs. INPUD stands ready to support the continued engagement of our organisations and community in these processes.'
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Romania on drug demand reduction
In 2003, a new Agency was established that promotes a balanced approach to demand and supply reduction. It includes training to health professionals.
Legal framework: We have key partners between ministries and the programmes provide a wide range of services.
Major development: role played by public authorities and NGOs. Addiction is now seen as a disease.
In 2009, a number of projects were initiated for more than 1,000 drug users for HIV prevention, treatment and care; provide grounds for civil society organisations and technical assistance through capacity building; training programmes among stake holders and service providers; development of a harm reduction approach. Available expertise would help in these domains. Globalisation gives us the chance to get information on what is effective and works.
Legal framework: We have key partners between ministries and the programmes provide a wide range of services.
Major development: role played by public authorities and NGOs. Addiction is now seen as a disease.
In 2009, a number of projects were initiated for more than 1,000 drug users for HIV prevention, treatment and care; provide grounds for civil society organisations and technical assistance through capacity building; training programmes among stake holders and service providers; development of a harm reduction approach. Available expertise would help in these domains. Globalisation gives us the chance to get information on what is effective and works.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Ecuador on drug demand reduction
We are aware of our own realities and the multi-dimensional nature of the problem, and our priority will always been the focus on the human being. Addiction is a public health problem, and human rights are of the utmost importance instead of decriminalisation. This balanced approach has been supported by many within the international community.
We should be punishing the real roots of the problem, not those used as couriers or those requiring care from the professional medical side. We are addressing the new laws to make sure that the topic is specialised in intervention areas. A new proceedings rights code will address this topic as well: whole scale and small scale retail, as well as personal consumption will be addressed. Principles of justice and equity will be promoted. We have achieved constant and positive results so far.
We should be punishing the real roots of the problem, not those used as couriers or those requiring care from the professional medical side. We are addressing the new laws to make sure that the topic is specialised in intervention areas. A new proceedings rights code will address this topic as well: whole scale and small scale retail, as well as personal consumption will be addressed. Principles of justice and equity will be promoted. We have achieved constant and positive results so far.
CND Day 4 – Debate over draft resolution on Strengthened international cooperation in combating drug trafficking in the Committee of the Whole
Ecuador argued that the draft resolution lacks a balanced approach to the drug problem. The title should be changed. Instead of saying in “combating drug trafficking”, the resolution should say encountering the world drug problem. The delegation is not convinced that it’s a resolution that focused solely on drug trafficking. Further, the delegation would like to see preambuler paragraph 5 [which refers to: “the negative effects of transnational crime, including smuggling and trafficking of human beings, narcotic drugs and small arms and light weapons, on development, peace and security, and human rights, and the increasing vulnerability of States to such crime”] would be better suited for the crime commission than the CND, since it is not limited to drugs.
Norway said operative paragraph 1 – which “Emphasizes the urgent need to respond to the threat posed by drug trafficking to peace and international security, in different regions, while maintaining an integrated and balanced approach in accordance with the principle of a common and shared responsibility” – should include a reference to the UN Charter and Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Several delegations raised concerns about references to international peace and security.
Norway said operative paragraph 1 – which “Emphasizes the urgent need to respond to the threat posed by drug trafficking to peace and international security, in different regions, while maintaining an integrated and balanced approach in accordance with the principle of a common and shared responsibility” – should include a reference to the UN Charter and Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Several delegations raised concerns about references to international peace and security.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of the Republic of Korea on drug demand reduction
We suggest taking advantage of the latest communication media (facebook, twitter, etc.) to target the youth. The active operation of rehabilitation centres is a major step in Korea. Korea increased the involvement of civil society y providing financial aid to their programmes.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Italy on drug demand reduction
Italy considers demand reduction as fundamental. Drug dependent individuals cannot be abandoned and their dignity and human rights should be respected. This approach emphasizes respect for human rights and compliance for international law and customary law. We have decided to take action to meet all targets on prevention and education. We have placed special attention on selective and universal prevention, including for those particularly vulnerable.
- Early detection programmes for drug users and dependant
- Specific operations to treat dependence with particular reference to cognitive and behavioural science.
- Active involvement of parents, educators and teachers.
- Focus on the damages caused by drugs and predicted symptoms related to drugs use.
- Campaign to prevent poly-drug use.
- Major project under development for prevention treatment and rehabilitation for women, especially for sex work in exchange for drugs.
- Major checks for the use of drug tests to prevent accidents linked to alcohol and drug use.
- Provision for the introduction of drug tests for minors to obtain licences for motorcycle use.
- Specific focus on the workplace
- Social reintegration is also included in the programme, connections with public facilities to create a network of facilities and services
- Prevention programmes aimed at facilities used by young people
- Focus on prison facilities for juveniles
- Provide information to foreigners on the dangers of drug use.
- Early detection programmes for drug users and dependant
- Specific operations to treat dependence with particular reference to cognitive and behavioural science.
- Active involvement of parents, educators and teachers.
- Focus on the damages caused by drugs and predicted symptoms related to drugs use.
- Campaign to prevent poly-drug use.
- Major project under development for prevention treatment and rehabilitation for women, especially for sex work in exchange for drugs.
- Major checks for the use of drug tests to prevent accidents linked to alcohol and drug use.
- Provision for the introduction of drug tests for minors to obtain licences for motorcycle use.
- Specific focus on the workplace
- Social reintegration is also included in the programme, connections with public facilities to create a network of facilities and services
- Prevention programmes aimed at facilities used by young people
- Focus on prison facilities for juveniles
- Provide information to foreigners on the dangers of drug use.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Austria on drug demand reduction
We need to set clear and tangible targets to address the issue of demand reduction. We need an integrated and balanced strategy. In Austria, we have developed a comprehensive drug demand reduction policy. From 1990s, services have started to focus on harm reduction and substitution therapy, through ways to prevent and limit harms associated with drugs. Austria puts a strong focus on rehabilitation and social inclusion of drug users.
The main focus was placed on HIV, and the rates of transmission have been considerably reduced.
Diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis B and C have recently been a crucial part of our policy. It focuses on harm reduction to reduce blood borne diseases through healthcare services.
Prevention of infections is key in prison areas.
Condoms and disinfectants and HIV counselling and testing are also provided.
Austria also cooperates with NGOs and civil society in this field.
International AIDS Conference: organised by the International AIDS Society in partnership with the Austrian government, with over 25,000 participants. The theme of the conference emphasizes the importance of human rights as a prerequisite to an effective response to HIV.
Demand reduction is essential to countering the world drug problem. We must enhance our efforts to protect drug users and HIV infected from harms.
The main focus was placed on HIV, and the rates of transmission have been considerably reduced.
Diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis B and C have recently been a crucial part of our policy. It focuses on harm reduction to reduce blood borne diseases through healthcare services.
Prevention of infections is key in prison areas.
Condoms and disinfectants and HIV counselling and testing are also provided.
Austria also cooperates with NGOs and civil society in this field.
International AIDS Conference: organised by the International AIDS Society in partnership with the Austrian government, with over 25,000 participants. The theme of the conference emphasizes the importance of human rights as a prerequisite to an effective response to HIV.
Demand reduction is essential to countering the world drug problem. We must enhance our efforts to protect drug users and HIV infected from harms.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Japan on drug demand reduction
We adopt a zero-tolerance policy on drug use is stressed by Japan to maintain a low rate of drug use. There should be public awareness on the dangers of drug use, to diminish the problem of drug use. We have a campaign through many public awareness activities, especially among young people.
It is indispensable for member states to cooperate in this field. Drug abuse can be countered through strong will and commitment.
Treatment of drug dependence and support for social reintegration is important as well to reconstruct our societies and affected families. We have been making progress providing social services and social reintegration.
Japan recognises the need for treatment of drug dependents to abstain from drugs. But MMT is not universal to all countries. NSPs are problematic: it would permit drug abuse in society. This programme should be discussed according to each particular situation. UNODC should not impose these programmes on member states.
It is indispensable for member states to cooperate in this field. Drug abuse can be countered through strong will and commitment.
Treatment of drug dependence and support for social reintegration is important as well to reconstruct our societies and affected families. We have been making progress providing social services and social reintegration.
Japan recognises the need for treatment of drug dependents to abstain from drugs. But MMT is not universal to all countries. NSPs are problematic: it would permit drug abuse in society. This programme should be discussed according to each particular situation. UNODC should not impose these programmes on member states.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Israel on drug demand reduction
Prevention is available at all levels. The state of Israeli is home to a wide range of social-economic, religious and cultural backgrounds, which is taken into consideration in our demand reduction policies. We have developed programmes tailored to each subgroup. It is part of the school curriculum, starting at kinder garden until high school, army and university. Our drug use rates have remained steady throughout the years.
Israel held a workshop on demand reduction, and will hold another conference on the topic in the near future.
Israel held a workshop on demand reduction, and will hold another conference on the topic in the near future.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Hungary on drug demand reduction
New 2009 Hungarian national drug policy: During the preparatory phase: consultations with international bodies. The main guiding principle is a balanced approach between demand and supply reduction interventions, integrated and disciplinary approach.
Policy evaluation is also an immense part of our strategy. We need reliable and comparable data. And we need this at the international level.
There needs to be a stress on the social exclusion and consequences on drug users. Our recovery services include: housing, mental health treatment, counselling for jobs, etc. This requires the integration of social and health services.
The harm reduction interventions as used in the EU are effective to reduce the spread of HIV, and reduce the burden of IDUs in society, and prevent drug-related deaths. The role of civil society is important to provide prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and harm reduction.
Policy evaluation is also an immense part of our strategy. We need reliable and comparable data. And we need this at the international level.
There needs to be a stress on the social exclusion and consequences on drug users. Our recovery services include: housing, mental health treatment, counselling for jobs, etc. This requires the integration of social and health services.
The harm reduction interventions as used in the EU are effective to reduce the spread of HIV, and reduce the burden of IDUs in society, and prevent drug-related deaths. The role of civil society is important to provide prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and harm reduction.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of the Czech Republic on drug demand reduction
The Czech Republic has a long history with drug use. After the fall of the Iron Curtain and opening to the open market, the use of ‘Western’ illicit drugs skyrocketed. We adequately responded with targeted and efficient harm reduction measures. We have achieved remarkable results to minimise health harms, including HIV and hepatitis among IDUs. NGOs and non-profit organisations have had an important role in this process since 1995. Services provided by them began to be financially supported by governmental bodies.
The harm and demand reduction measures are based on scientific evidence and monitoring on the impacts of this policy is performed frequently. It is also adapted to the local needs.
Positive impacts on harm reduction: low rates of HIV and hepatitis, low mortality rates by overdose and low problem drug use (0.4% of the population under 16 years old). Such results can be successful proof that these measures are efficient and do not lead to increased drug use.
The harm and demand reduction measures are based on scientific evidence and monitoring on the impacts of this policy is performed frequently. It is also adapted to the local needs.
Positive impacts on harm reduction: low rates of HIV and hepatitis, low mortality rates by overdose and low problem drug use (0.4% of the population under 16 years old). Such results can be successful proof that these measures are efficient and do not lead to increased drug use.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Peru on drug demand reduction
The age for consumption of alcohol/tobacco is 12 years old, while illicit drugs age is 14 years old. Many students have acknowledged that they had needed treatment at some point.
Peru has done much to develop well-adapted and validated programmes:
- Prevention among high-risk groups, family prevention, early guidance programme for adolescents, telephone hotlines and webpage.
- Treatment organised by the Ministry of Public Health
- Statistic collection: we are seeking to protecting young people and children in the form of recommendations from UNODC that we support.
Peru has done much to develop well-adapted and validated programmes:
- Prevention among high-risk groups, family prevention, early guidance programme for adolescents, telephone hotlines and webpage.
- Treatment organised by the Ministry of Public Health
- Statistic collection: we are seeking to protecting young people and children in the form of recommendations from UNODC that we support.
CND day 4 - Plenary statement of Spain on behalf of the EU on drug demand reduction
The EU remains firmly attached to the reduction of social and health damaged caused by the use of drugs. We aim to improve the quality and quantity of demand, and protect vulnerable groups, including high-risk groups, and the prevention of poly-drug use.
The EU reaffirms the commitment to the principle of shared responsibility, where demand reduction plays a crucial role: they should be humane, evidence-based and in line with human rights conventions.
Drug demand prevention represents a key element of the EU Action Plan of Drugs 2009-2012: measurably reduce the use of illicit drugs and the harms caused by individuals and society at large.
The evaluation of this strategy continues to be an integral part of the EU drug policy. After having analysed the action plan 2005-2008, the EU adopted a new action plan for 2009-2012, which draws lessons on what happened. It ensures that the prevention and treatment of drug use must be more widely available to reduce the demand for drugs and reduce the socio-health consequences of drug use.
Acknowledging the impacts of poverty, marginalisation and social exclusion, the EU continues to support demand reduction in many third world countries, along with principles of dignity and human rights of drug addicted people. Projects are funded to cover the full range of demand reduction measures in different parts of the world.
The EU stresses the importance of the role and commitment of NGOs for demand reduction.
The EU points to the alarming situation of HIV and Hepatitis C, and their linkages with IDUs. There is a need to meet the goal of universal access, and there is still much to be made in this domain. UNODC should assist in the scaling up of services to drug users. There should be a common understanding about what a comprehensive package for HIV prevention and drug users should contain. The HIV/AIDS Conference is a chance to demonstrate the need to constantly invest in HIV prevention and treatment. We also express our full support on WHO/UNODC on dependence treatment and care.
Renewal of the call for respect of human rights.
The EU reaffirms the commitment to the principle of shared responsibility, where demand reduction plays a crucial role: they should be humane, evidence-based and in line with human rights conventions.
Drug demand prevention represents a key element of the EU Action Plan of Drugs 2009-2012: measurably reduce the use of illicit drugs and the harms caused by individuals and society at large.
The evaluation of this strategy continues to be an integral part of the EU drug policy. After having analysed the action plan 2005-2008, the EU adopted a new action plan for 2009-2012, which draws lessons on what happened. It ensures that the prevention and treatment of drug use must be more widely available to reduce the demand for drugs and reduce the socio-health consequences of drug use.
Acknowledging the impacts of poverty, marginalisation and social exclusion, the EU continues to support demand reduction in many third world countries, along with principles of dignity and human rights of drug addicted people. Projects are funded to cover the full range of demand reduction measures in different parts of the world.
The EU stresses the importance of the role and commitment of NGOs for demand reduction.
The EU points to the alarming situation of HIV and Hepatitis C, and their linkages with IDUs. There is a need to meet the goal of universal access, and there is still much to be made in this domain. UNODC should assist in the scaling up of services to drug users. There should be a common understanding about what a comprehensive package for HIV prevention and drug users should contain. The HIV/AIDS Conference is a chance to demonstrate the need to constantly invest in HIV prevention and treatment. We also express our full support on WHO/UNODC on dependence treatment and care.
Renewal of the call for respect of human rights.
CND Day 4 – UNODC HIV/AIDS Unit's plenary introduction to Drug demand reduction: world situation with regard to drug abuse
The comprehensive package of nine services for injecting drug users (IDUs), includes OST, NSPs, voluntary counselling and therapy, ARVs, prevention of STIs, targeted information and education, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease.
There are an estimated 15.9 million IDUs in 151 countries and roughly 3-million of them are living with HIV. The use of ATS and crack has been associated with transmission of HIV as well. HIV significantly affects the prisoner population, which can greatly affect a country’s general population.
UNODC has over 100 staff members covering 55 priority countries. The range of activities is very wide and includes dispensation of buprenorphine and work with vulnerable groups. Research shows HIV among IDUs is preventable but access can be low, especially among vulnerable groups including prisoners, refugees and women. UNODC is implementing programmes among these marginalised vulnerable populations.
The latest data published in the Lancet shows extreme shortfalls in harm reduction services to drugs users. Priority areas include a scaling up of the comprehensive package. There is a real priority for NSPs, OST, and ARV for IDUs.
There are an estimated 15.9 million IDUs in 151 countries and roughly 3-million of them are living with HIV. The use of ATS and crack has been associated with transmission of HIV as well. HIV significantly affects the prisoner population, which can greatly affect a country’s general population.
UNODC has over 100 staff members covering 55 priority countries. The range of activities is very wide and includes dispensation of buprenorphine and work with vulnerable groups. Research shows HIV among IDUs is preventable but access can be low, especially among vulnerable groups including prisoners, refugees and women. UNODC is implementing programmes among these marginalised vulnerable populations.
The latest data published in the Lancet shows extreme shortfalls in harm reduction services to drugs users. Priority areas include a scaling up of the comprehensive package. There is a real priority for NSPs, OST, and ARV for IDUs.
CND day 4 - UNODC's introduction to drug demand reduction - the uses and harms of ATS
In terms of treatment demand, it seems to be growing in every region of the world.
ATS regroups a wide range of categories of drugs: In North America, there is a greater use of methamphetamines and prescription of amphetamines, while in Asia and Central Europe it is more focused on methamphetamine. In other regions, such as Africa, we have very little information on ATS use.
It is important to look at the forms of ATS because they will lead to different harms. Some are smoked, others injected making drug injectors more threatened by HIV.
Today, most drugs are synthetic, and many are not under the international drug control system. We know very little about their effects, while they emerge very quickly. They can be purchased cheaply on the internet and shipped directly to the drug user.
ATS regroups a wide range of categories of drugs: In North America, there is a greater use of methamphetamines and prescription of amphetamines, while in Asia and Central Europe it is more focused on methamphetamine. In other regions, such as Africa, we have very little information on ATS use.
It is important to look at the forms of ATS because they will lead to different harms. Some are smoked, others injected making drug injectors more threatened by HIV.
Today, most drugs are synthetic, and many are not under the international drug control system. We know very little about their effects, while they emerge very quickly. They can be purchased cheaply on the internet and shipped directly to the drug user.
CND Day 4 – UNODC’s introduction to Drug demand reduction: world situation with regard to drug abuse
Ninety countries provided information on the expert section – which is the minimum information provided on the Annual Reports Questionnaire. The response rate from the Americas, Europe and Australia was fairly high. Many countries in Asia and the Middle East provided partial responses. However, countries in Africa and Pacific Islands provided very little. In terms of prevalence data, there are gaps in cocaine and amphetamine data in Asia and Africa. For example, UNODC has limited information on the effect of trafficking through West Africa on usage patterns because of this lack of information. Despite a sharp decrease in cocaine use in North America it is still higher than in some other regions.
This type of qualitative information and expert perception has limitations. This kind of ‘soft information’ may not drive policy but it can highlight some problems. In terms of countries not people, there are a higher number of countries reporting an increase in the use of drugs than those reporting a decrease. In 2007 is was estimated drug users are estimated to be between 172-million to 250-million. Exact figures are difficult to track but the UNODC is trying to provide a range. Problematic drug users range between 18-million to 38-million people. The higher number of users is of cannabis followed by ATS, ecstasy and then opium and cocaine. There are much bigger ranges of cannabis and ATS usage reflecting the gaps in knowledge.
What about trends? Though it is only an expert perception it can point to countries or region that might require follow-up. For example, what it shows is that there is an increase in cannabis use in some regions like Russia, Central Asia and Africa. Treatment data can highlight problems. In the Americas a lot of problems are cocaine related. There is also a high prevalence of cannabis use in Latin America. Globally, though fewer users are being admitted for opiates there is a rise in ATS.
This type of qualitative information and expert perception has limitations. This kind of ‘soft information’ may not drive policy but it can highlight some problems. In terms of countries not people, there are a higher number of countries reporting an increase in the use of drugs than those reporting a decrease. In 2007 is was estimated drug users are estimated to be between 172-million to 250-million. Exact figures are difficult to track but the UNODC is trying to provide a range. Problematic drug users range between 18-million to 38-million people. The higher number of users is of cannabis followed by ATS, ecstasy and then opium and cocaine. There are much bigger ranges of cannabis and ATS usage reflecting the gaps in knowledge.
What about trends? Though it is only an expert perception it can point to countries or region that might require follow-up. For example, what it shows is that there is an increase in cannabis use in some regions like Russia, Central Asia and Africa. Treatment data can highlight problems. In the Americas a lot of problems are cocaine related. There is also a high prevalence of cannabis use in Latin America. Globally, though fewer users are being admitted for opiates there is a rise in ATS.
CND Day 4 - Russian Federation on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action
Raised the problem of traffic in Afghan-sourced drugs. Though statistics show reduction in heroin production in Afghanistan, the breadth and scope of Afghan-sourced heroin cannot be overestimated. It is necessary to support the Paris Pact. The Russian federation is also proposing another conference with qualified representatives. Issues that could be raised include a a strategic road map, necessary assistance, monitoring bodies that could be activated, analysis of the scope of illicit cultivation of poppy in Afghanistan.
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
CND Day 3 - Committee of the Whole afternoon session on Universal Access resolution
The Committee debated the language of a draft resolution proposed by the EU, Norway and Thailand entitled 'Achieving universal access to treatment, care and support for people with HIV, including injecting drug users, by 2010'.
There was significant debate on preambular paragraph 3, which as drafted stated:
'Concerned that the coverage of HIV prevention services is far from adequate in many countries with a high prevalence of injecting drug use and that HIV responses in many countries fail to meet international legal obligations to promote, protect and respect human rights'
Pakistan started the discussion, objecting to the reference to human rights. As stated by the delegate, ‘I doubt that the purpose of the HIV response is to promote human rights. That is not the purpose.’
Iran supported Pakistan, suggesting that the Committee just delete everything after ‘drug use’.
Russia agreed with Iran and Pakistan, stating that fighting AIDS is ‘not linked to human rights’.
The UK drew attention to the 2009 resolution of the UN Human Rights Council on HIV and human rights, and that the UN had already agreed that HIV and human rights were linked.
Russia responded that ‘We’re not at the Human Rights Council here. We’re at the Commission on Narcotic Drugs. We’re looking at the non-proliferation of AIDS from our perspective.’
China spoke up in support of Pakistan, Iran and Russia.
Thailand suggested that the language be changed to ‘fail to meet the right to health as guaranteed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights’
Spain noted that lack of human rights is one of the main barriers to gaining access to HIV treatment. Spain supported the Thai proposed language.
The delegate of Zimbabwe spoke up to 'lend my voice to support taking out human rights' and noted that ‘CND should limit its mandate to drugs, not human rights’.
Argentina supported the Thai proposed language.
The USA noted that while it was OK with original language, it would suggest that the language as proposed by Thailand should instead be 'the highest attainable standard of health'
Then Iran changed tack, suggesting that they insert the phase ‘more humanitarian efforts’ instead of ‘human rights’. China supported this proposal.
Argentina, getting right to the point, stated ‘humanitarian efforts are not human rights’
The UK, seeking to combine the Thailand and US suggestions, proposed that the language read that the HIV response ‘should strive to achieve the highest attainable standard of health as guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights’
Pakistan responded that it is ‘Not the purpose of the HIV response to achieve the highest attainable standard of health’
At this point, seeing no progress in satisfying the countries obstructing the human rights language, the Chair suggested they move on and come back to it later.
Later the COW agreed without comment to preambular paragraph 11, which reads:
'Recognizing that the full realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all is an essential element in the global response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, including in the areas of prevention, care, support and treatment, and that such a response reduces people’s vulnerability to HIV/AIDS and prevents stigma and related discrimination against people living with or at risk of HIV/AIDS'
Significant debate took place again over operative paragraphs 2 and 3, both of which refer to 'harm reduction'. Countries including Columbia, Russia, Zimbabwe, the USA and Japan all wanted the term removed.
The US suggested instead the language be changed to reflect the 9 core interventions on preventing HIV as supported by WHO, UNODC and UNAIDS, stated that US these are ‘the 9 interventions that the United States fully supports’.
As with the discussions on preambular paragraph 3, final debate on these paragraphs were put over to tomorrow morning.
There was significant debate on preambular paragraph 3, which as drafted stated:
'Concerned that the coverage of HIV prevention services is far from adequate in many countries with a high prevalence of injecting drug use and that HIV responses in many countries fail to meet international legal obligations to promote, protect and respect human rights'
Pakistan started the discussion, objecting to the reference to human rights. As stated by the delegate, ‘I doubt that the purpose of the HIV response is to promote human rights. That is not the purpose.’
Iran supported Pakistan, suggesting that the Committee just delete everything after ‘drug use’.
Russia agreed with Iran and Pakistan, stating that fighting AIDS is ‘not linked to human rights’.
The UK drew attention to the 2009 resolution of the UN Human Rights Council on HIV and human rights, and that the UN had already agreed that HIV and human rights were linked.
Russia responded that ‘We’re not at the Human Rights Council here. We’re at the Commission on Narcotic Drugs. We’re looking at the non-proliferation of AIDS from our perspective.’
China spoke up in support of Pakistan, Iran and Russia.
Thailand suggested that the language be changed to ‘fail to meet the right to health as guaranteed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights’
Spain noted that lack of human rights is one of the main barriers to gaining access to HIV treatment. Spain supported the Thai proposed language.
The delegate of Zimbabwe spoke up to 'lend my voice to support taking out human rights' and noted that ‘CND should limit its mandate to drugs, not human rights’.
Argentina supported the Thai proposed language.
The USA noted that while it was OK with original language, it would suggest that the language as proposed by Thailand should instead be 'the highest attainable standard of health'
Then Iran changed tack, suggesting that they insert the phase ‘more humanitarian efforts’ instead of ‘human rights’. China supported this proposal.
Argentina, getting right to the point, stated ‘humanitarian efforts are not human rights’
The UK, seeking to combine the Thailand and US suggestions, proposed that the language read that the HIV response ‘should strive to achieve the highest attainable standard of health as guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights’
Pakistan responded that it is ‘Not the purpose of the HIV response to achieve the highest attainable standard of health’
At this point, seeing no progress in satisfying the countries obstructing the human rights language, the Chair suggested they move on and come back to it later.
Later the COW agreed without comment to preambular paragraph 11, which reads:
'Recognizing that the full realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all is an essential element in the global response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, including in the areas of prevention, care, support and treatment, and that such a response reduces people’s vulnerability to HIV/AIDS and prevents stigma and related discrimination against people living with or at risk of HIV/AIDS'
Significant debate took place again over operative paragraphs 2 and 3, both of which refer to 'harm reduction'. Countries including Columbia, Russia, Zimbabwe, the USA and Japan all wanted the term removed.
The US suggested instead the language be changed to reflect the 9 core interventions on preventing HIV as supported by WHO, UNODC and UNAIDS, stated that US these are ‘the 9 interventions that the United States fully supports’.
As with the discussions on preambular paragraph 3, final debate on these paragraphs were put over to tomorrow morning.
CND Day 3 - UNODC's Policy Analysis and Public Affairs Division introduces item on improving the collection, reporting and analysis of data
Annual data collection is needed first and foremost because it is mandated by the 1961 convention. Also a data collection instrument is needed because the Political Declaration of last year, which required reporting by states so progress could be monitored. State have been presented with a new draft questionnaire, which includes a new section on programmes. The process of data collection requires participation, resources and political will. What has been accomplished so far has been done so without additional resources.
CND Day 3 – UNAIDS Executive Director Address to the Plenary
UNAIDS Executive Director, Michel Sidibe, addressed the CND plenary session this afternoon. Below is the official text of his speech.
Pragmatism vs. Punishment: The Case for Harm Reduction
I want to first extend my personal gratitude to UNODC Executive Director Antonio Maria
Costa for his service to UNAIDS as part of the UNAIDS family of Cosponsors. His stewardship of UNODC has served the global AIDS response well, and here I want also to pay tribute to Christian Kroll and his team who have greatly extended the capacity to provide effective technical advice and support to countries in overcoming the twin challenges of HIV and injecting drug use.
The most recent estimates suggest that there are around 16 million injecting drug users worldwide. Of those, just under 3 million are living with HIV.
In much of the world, the HIV epidemic among drug users is long-standing. But in some places it is newly emerging. In East Africa, HIV transmission due to drug use is rising. I fear that it will propel a new wave of infections and undo recent gains we have made in curbing sexual transmission of HIV.
My other concern is the HIV epidemic in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. I am sorry to report that today we are seeing a new upturn in infections in some countries of the region―a new generation of drug injectors is going through the same pattern of HIV spread as the previous generation. HIV in this region is transmitted both through the sharing of contaminated injecting equipment, and the sexual transmission of HIV between drug injectors and their sexual partners, then spreading to the partners of partners and their families.
We must focus our efforts on stopping this chain of transmission. Above all, that means making it safer for those who are use drugs. This is harm reduction, and it is an effective and important form of HIV prevention and a key component of our pledge for Universal Access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support.
Life on the edge
Many of today’s drug users live a life on the margins of society: they can be arrested, even for possessing a clean needle, and sent to prison, where the perfect environment is created for HIV and TB to spread. Or they can be confined to compulsory drug detention centres, often with no due legal process, where they are shackled and beaten in the name of drug “treatment” but with absolutely no access to any medically supervised remedies for drug dependency. This happens to tens of thousands each year, and on release, the great majority simply resume their drug use and unsafe sexual behaviours.
I ask you, how does this punitive approach stop the spread of AIDS? Answer: It does not.
The vicious cycle of secrecy, social exclusion, drug use, criminalization and HIV spread must be broken.
This is why physicians and social scientists have worked so hard to create evidence-based harm reduction measures that work, helping drug users protect their health and the health of the broader community—including preventing HIV infection.
Effective harm reduction approaches include access to clean needles, opioid substitution therapy for opiate users, access to antiretroviral therapy and reducing sexual transmission of HIV from drug users to their sexual partners through condom promotion.
But current coverage of these services is appallingly low. It is shocking that the global average is fewer than 2 clean needles per month per injecting drug user, that under 13% of drug users are in opioid substitution treatment and that only 4% of injecting drug users living with HIV are on HIV treatment.
No new infections
All countries should aspire to no new HIV infections among injecting drug users. A decade ago this seemed an impossible reach, but today we can see it becoming a reality. We have seen new HIV infections among drug users become a rarity in the Netherlands, Lithuania, Spain, Portugal and are starting to see the same trends in Malaysia and Bangladesh.
I have just returned from Vancouver where I was privileged to see at first hand the impacts of effective HIV treatment and prevention among drug users, with the pioneering work led by Professor Julio Montaner. There, too, reaching zero new HIV infections among drug users seems within grasp. Truly, this is what universal access is all about.
Moving from vicious cycle to supportive circle
Governments are waking up to the value of pragmatism over punishment. The Supreme Court of Indonesia has ruled that drug users need treatment, not criminalisation. The Government of Ukraine has made harm reduction, including substitution therapy, a part of its official policy. China now has more drug replacement clinics and needle and syringe programmes than any other country in Asia. A groundbreaking methadone maintenance treatment programme piloted in 2004 has grown to 680 clinics covering 24 provinces, and 1000 needle exchange centres reach 40,000 drug injectors every month.
This is an astonishing turnaround that serves as a harm reduction model for other countries.
Breaking the vicious cycle of HIV and drug dependence demands that we build supportive relationships between people who use drugs, health authorities and law enforcement. Civil tribunals that provide counselling and support can be a more effective response to drug offences than custodial sentences, as Portugal has shown. Alternatives to imprisonment and drug courts sensitive to the needs of drug dependant users are burgeoning across the world.
But despite the success of these models, all too often today, it is the police on the beat and the drug user in the street who are forced into a confrontation in the hand-to-hand combat of the war on drugs―and communities are the collateral damage. This endless and fruitless fighting must stop. We have alternatives: focussing our efforts in confronting the very real health problems of drug dependence and problematic drug use. Science, policy and governance must come together in this positive partnership.
Finally, harsh treatment and punitive laws rob people of their dignity as human beings. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on Member States to ensure that people who are struggling with drug addiction be given equal access to health and social services, and asserted, “No one should be stigmatized or discriminated against because of their dependence on drugs.”
Offering our brothers and sisters who struggle with drug use a hand up, rather than a slap down, will restore faith in universal human rights that will greatly benefit our global efforts to wipe out this epidemic.
Pragmatism vs. Punishment: The Case for Harm Reduction
I want to first extend my personal gratitude to UNODC Executive Director Antonio Maria
Costa for his service to UNAIDS as part of the UNAIDS family of Cosponsors. His stewardship of UNODC has served the global AIDS response well, and here I want also to pay tribute to Christian Kroll and his team who have greatly extended the capacity to provide effective technical advice and support to countries in overcoming the twin challenges of HIV and injecting drug use.
The most recent estimates suggest that there are around 16 million injecting drug users worldwide. Of those, just under 3 million are living with HIV.
In much of the world, the HIV epidemic among drug users is long-standing. But in some places it is newly emerging. In East Africa, HIV transmission due to drug use is rising. I fear that it will propel a new wave of infections and undo recent gains we have made in curbing sexual transmission of HIV.
My other concern is the HIV epidemic in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. I am sorry to report that today we are seeing a new upturn in infections in some countries of the region―a new generation of drug injectors is going through the same pattern of HIV spread as the previous generation. HIV in this region is transmitted both through the sharing of contaminated injecting equipment, and the sexual transmission of HIV between drug injectors and their sexual partners, then spreading to the partners of partners and their families.
We must focus our efforts on stopping this chain of transmission. Above all, that means making it safer for those who are use drugs. This is harm reduction, and it is an effective and important form of HIV prevention and a key component of our pledge for Universal Access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support.
Life on the edge
Many of today’s drug users live a life on the margins of society: they can be arrested, even for possessing a clean needle, and sent to prison, where the perfect environment is created for HIV and TB to spread. Or they can be confined to compulsory drug detention centres, often with no due legal process, where they are shackled and beaten in the name of drug “treatment” but with absolutely no access to any medically supervised remedies for drug dependency. This happens to tens of thousands each year, and on release, the great majority simply resume their drug use and unsafe sexual behaviours.
I ask you, how does this punitive approach stop the spread of AIDS? Answer: It does not.
The vicious cycle of secrecy, social exclusion, drug use, criminalization and HIV spread must be broken.
This is why physicians and social scientists have worked so hard to create evidence-based harm reduction measures that work, helping drug users protect their health and the health of the broader community—including preventing HIV infection.
Effective harm reduction approaches include access to clean needles, opioid substitution therapy for opiate users, access to antiretroviral therapy and reducing sexual transmission of HIV from drug users to their sexual partners through condom promotion.
But current coverage of these services is appallingly low. It is shocking that the global average is fewer than 2 clean needles per month per injecting drug user, that under 13% of drug users are in opioid substitution treatment and that only 4% of injecting drug users living with HIV are on HIV treatment.
No new infections
All countries should aspire to no new HIV infections among injecting drug users. A decade ago this seemed an impossible reach, but today we can see it becoming a reality. We have seen new HIV infections among drug users become a rarity in the Netherlands, Lithuania, Spain, Portugal and are starting to see the same trends in Malaysia and Bangladesh.
I have just returned from Vancouver where I was privileged to see at first hand the impacts of effective HIV treatment and prevention among drug users, with the pioneering work led by Professor Julio Montaner. There, too, reaching zero new HIV infections among drug users seems within grasp. Truly, this is what universal access is all about.
Moving from vicious cycle to supportive circle
Governments are waking up to the value of pragmatism over punishment. The Supreme Court of Indonesia has ruled that drug users need treatment, not criminalisation. The Government of Ukraine has made harm reduction, including substitution therapy, a part of its official policy. China now has more drug replacement clinics and needle and syringe programmes than any other country in Asia. A groundbreaking methadone maintenance treatment programme piloted in 2004 has grown to 680 clinics covering 24 provinces, and 1000 needle exchange centres reach 40,000 drug injectors every month.
This is an astonishing turnaround that serves as a harm reduction model for other countries.
Breaking the vicious cycle of HIV and drug dependence demands that we build supportive relationships between people who use drugs, health authorities and law enforcement. Civil tribunals that provide counselling and support can be a more effective response to drug offences than custodial sentences, as Portugal has shown. Alternatives to imprisonment and drug courts sensitive to the needs of drug dependant users are burgeoning across the world.
But despite the success of these models, all too often today, it is the police on the beat and the drug user in the street who are forced into a confrontation in the hand-to-hand combat of the war on drugs―and communities are the collateral damage. This endless and fruitless fighting must stop. We have alternatives: focussing our efforts in confronting the very real health problems of drug dependence and problematic drug use. Science, policy and governance must come together in this positive partnership.
Finally, harsh treatment and punitive laws rob people of their dignity as human beings. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on Member States to ensure that people who are struggling with drug addiction be given equal access to health and social services, and asserted, “No one should be stigmatized or discriminated against because of their dependence on drugs.”
Offering our brothers and sisters who struggle with drug use a hand up, rather than a slap down, will restore faith in universal human rights that will greatly benefit our global efforts to wipe out this epidemic.
CND Day 3 – Colombia’s Plenary Statement on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action
The objective is to eliminate the links in the chain from production onwards. Successfully strengthened national institutions in Colombia and succeeded in numerous counter-drug projects.
Colombia eliminated coca crops throughout the country. 2009 witnessed a major reduction in coca. Alternative develop plans have been implemented as well. Manual voluntary eradication includes work with cooperatives for rural development. In terms of forced eradication it is intended to supplement voluntary eradication.
Work against the drug problem in past years was not limited to eradication of illicit crops but included large-scale seizures of cocaine and heroin. Such seizures demonstrate that Colombia has a zero-tolerance policy towards traffickers who throw these drugs to the biggest markets around the world.
Colombia has been able to break up clandestine drug production operations thoughout the country including more than 17,000 clandestine labs. Most of these were processing cocaine base and some producing hydrochloride and heroin. The Colombian government calls on international government to help fight the scourge. All forces should be used to attack every link in the drug trafficking system.
Besides law enforcement efforts it is essential to emphasise efforts to take on money-laundering.
Colombia eliminated coca crops throughout the country. 2009 witnessed a major reduction in coca. Alternative develop plans have been implemented as well. Manual voluntary eradication includes work with cooperatives for rural development. In terms of forced eradication it is intended to supplement voluntary eradication.
Work against the drug problem in past years was not limited to eradication of illicit crops but included large-scale seizures of cocaine and heroin. Such seizures demonstrate that Colombia has a zero-tolerance policy towards traffickers who throw these drugs to the biggest markets around the world.
Colombia has been able to break up clandestine drug production operations thoughout the country including more than 17,000 clandestine labs. Most of these were processing cocaine base and some producing hydrochloride and heroin. The Colombian government calls on international government to help fight the scourge. All forces should be used to attack every link in the drug trafficking system.
Besides law enforcement efforts it is essential to emphasise efforts to take on money-laundering.
CND Day 3 – Mexico’s Plenary Statement on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action
Considering the complex links between drug trafficking and a battery of other crimes, Mexico believes states must strengthen cooperation to turn commitments and declarations into facts.
Supported delegate of Argentina’s comments about the change in approach to thematic debate. Agrees there could be a more effective use of time devoted to the thematic debates. Reiterates comments made by Argentina on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action, which set deadlines that must be met.
The CND should take advantage of the experiences of other UN agencies on follow-up, to make follow-up more effective. In the sphere of data collection, Mexico believes that more centralised and effective approach that sets deadlines in the plan of action and the synergy that could arise in data collection efforts could lead to a renewed means of coming to grips with the vexed issue of thematic debates.
Supported delegate of Argentina’s comments about the change in approach to thematic debate. Agrees there could be a more effective use of time devoted to the thematic debates. Reiterates comments made by Argentina on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action, which set deadlines that must be met.
The CND should take advantage of the experiences of other UN agencies on follow-up, to make follow-up more effective. In the sphere of data collection, Mexico believes that more centralised and effective approach that sets deadlines in the plan of action and the synergy that could arise in data collection efforts could lead to a renewed means of coming to grips with the vexed issue of thematic debates.
CND Day 3 – Republic of Moldova’s Plenary Statement on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action
UNODC, INCB and CND play an important role in combating drugs. Republic of Moldova calls on member states to cooperate in the common desire to address existing problems. Republic of Moldova looks forward to working together with partners so that they might make headway in this regard.
In addition to participating in multilateral forums, launched online information tool and communications channels in the field of combating drug trafficking, leading to large-scale seizures. Encourages joint activities between UNODC and the region.
Cooperation of numerous bodies is central to health strategies. Universal access to HIV prevention and care is a main component of stopping the epidemic.
In addition to participating in multilateral forums, launched online information tool and communications channels in the field of combating drug trafficking, leading to large-scale seizures. Encourages joint activities between UNODC and the region.
Cooperation of numerous bodies is central to health strategies. Universal access to HIV prevention and care is a main component of stopping the epidemic.
CND Day 3 – Venezuela’s Plenary Statement on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action
Acknowledges the impact and dimensions of world drug problem. Venezuela recognises the threats to some countries but this should not serve as a pretext for punitive military measures against other countries. States should use existing political and legal platforms to promote responses based on international cooperation. There is a road map that already exists to address this problem.
Venezuela is aware of the effects of drug problem on certain member states. However the involvement of the Security Council could be problematic. The Security Council could replace the prerogatives of the General Assembly, which could lead to negative results. The General Assembly and ECOSOC are the natural, appropriate spheres to address this problem. The issues arising from illicit drug trafficking are a matter of a criminal nature – not a threat to international peace and security. The drug problem must be addressed in the spirit of international cooperation and using the machinery of the United Nations and in the principle of non-intervention.
Venezuela is aware of the effects of drug problem on certain member states. However the involvement of the Security Council could be problematic. The Security Council could replace the prerogatives of the General Assembly, which could lead to negative results. The General Assembly and ECOSOC are the natural, appropriate spheres to address this problem. The issues arising from illicit drug trafficking are a matter of a criminal nature – not a threat to international peace and security. The drug problem must be addressed in the spirit of international cooperation and using the machinery of the United Nations and in the principle of non-intervention.
CND Day 3 – Cuba’s Plenary Statement on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action
Cuba has built a sound programme to counter illicit trafficking in drugs and precursor chemicals. Today Cuba can affirm that prevention policy has produced positive results despite limited economic resources, which have been further limited due to US embargo. The struggle has been waged with Cuba’s own economic political resources and popular support. Cuba will fight to the death to prevent the introduction of the scourge of drugs.
Cuba is not a producer state or transit country for illicit drugs. Special forces have worked on the border and within the nation to carry out successful large-scale seizures and interdiction efforts.
Prevention is the key component, which is why Cuba has improved community action with students and with civil society. Has detected evidence of use of substances with narcotic effects. Cuba ascribes enormous important to international cooperation, which should be based on untrammelled sovereignty of states. Reaffirms the willingness of Cuban Authorities to cooperate in this sphere. Cuba rejects unilateral sentiments like seals of good conduct by US government. Cuba nourishes hope that US government will engage in spirit of good cooperation.
Cuba is not a producer state or transit country for illicit drugs. Special forces have worked on the border and within the nation to carry out successful large-scale seizures and interdiction efforts.
Prevention is the key component, which is why Cuba has improved community action with students and with civil society. Has detected evidence of use of substances with narcotic effects. Cuba ascribes enormous important to international cooperation, which should be based on untrammelled sovereignty of states. Reaffirms the willingness of Cuban Authorities to cooperate in this sphere. Cuba rejects unilateral sentiments like seals of good conduct by US government. Cuba nourishes hope that US government will engage in spirit of good cooperation.
CND day 3 - Pakistan's plenary statement on the 52nd CND Political Declaration and Plan of Action
Pakistan fully supports the basic framework of the Political Declaration and Plan of Action. Afghanistan/Iran/Pakistan are developing a relationship of shared responsibility and cooperation, which should be seen as a model in the future. We have also signed a convention between 8 countries on criminal justice (ex: police conference).
Pakistan has manifested its political will against drugs. We have a ministry of narcotics control. 1993 drug policy will be reviewed, and a draft has been distributed. Pakistan also has a workplan for 2010-2013 to engage the international community for its shared responsibility: prevention, capacity building, criminal issues, international cooperation.
Pakistan has also formed an anti-narcotics control force. It will give us a better tactical operative framework in the field of drugs.
There are no labs in Pakistan, they were all destroyed. We also have strong precursor regimes in the region.
Threat of cannabis: it is linked to crime and corruption, including terrorism, and it is a regional concern.
We reiterate that Pakistan has a bilateral, regional and international framework of cooperation and are ready to cooperate fully.
We support Mr. Costa’s balanced and humane approach in his opening speech.
Pakistan has manifested its political will against drugs. We have a ministry of narcotics control. 1993 drug policy will be reviewed, and a draft has been distributed. Pakistan also has a workplan for 2010-2013 to engage the international community for its shared responsibility: prevention, capacity building, criminal issues, international cooperation.
Pakistan has also formed an anti-narcotics control force. It will give us a better tactical operative framework in the field of drugs.
There are no labs in Pakistan, they were all destroyed. We also have strong precursor regimes in the region.
Threat of cannabis: it is linked to crime and corruption, including terrorism, and it is a regional concern.
We reiterate that Pakistan has a bilateral, regional and international framework of cooperation and are ready to cooperate fully.
We support Mr. Costa’s balanced and humane approach in his opening speech.
CND Day 3 – South Africa’s Plenary Statement on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action
Seeking global solutions to a global problem. No country acting alone can counter world drug problem. Cannabis remains a drug of great concern. One of the most commonly used drugs in South Africa. Cocaine has been smuggled through South Africa and seen rise in amphetamines,
They have developed a prevention model and strengthened penalties for drug offences. Drug intervention programme includes youth prevention projects. South Africa is working with the UNODC, the business sector and civil society on some on these efforts.
South Africa continues to fight illicit drug trafficking at major ports of entry and called on more resources to be made available to the UNODC.
They have developed a prevention model and strengthened penalties for drug offences. Drug intervention programme includes youth prevention projects. South Africa is working with the UNODC, the business sector and civil society on some on these efforts.
South Africa continues to fight illicit drug trafficking at major ports of entry and called on more resources to be made available to the UNODC.
CND Day 3 - Argentina’s Plenary Statement on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action
Last year, adopted the declaration and plan of action after period of analysis. Once adopted the states have a basis for our work. Consensus on which we can put in a strategy for this commission. In this context it might be appropriate to update and adjust its message for work in light of the plan of action. Argentina is wondering if the time has come to rethink the matter of thematic debates. Given the objectives the thematic debates are rarely a debate. Thematic debates often come down to national statements. Maybe the time has come to reformulate and update that model.
The appropriate departure point to discuss the plan of action would be diagnosis. This could be done by working groups. Also, greater work could be devoted to links between the normative framework and the Palermo Convention against Organised Crime and perhaps the UN’s work against corruption. This would coordinate work and avoid duplication of efforts.
The appropriate departure point to discuss the plan of action would be diagnosis. This could be done by working groups. Also, greater work could be devoted to links between the normative framework and the Palermo Convention against Organised Crime and perhaps the UN’s work against corruption. This would coordinate work and avoid duplication of efforts.
CND day 3 - People's Republic of Lao plenary statement on the 52nd CND Plan of Action and Political Declaration
The transnational character of organised crime requires a concerted international cooperation. Laos welcomes the political declaration and plan of action to counter the world drug problem. The approach of the international community must be based on the principle of common and shared responsibility and include comprehensive strategies.
In 2006, poppy production was significantly decreased, but largely increased again in 2009. The price of opium poppy also increased. Traffic of heroin and ATS also increased, and led to a growing number of users. Reason: lack of alternative development to address the socio-economic needs of producers. The increase in arrests and seizures of drugs shows that Laos is a main road to transnational crime.
National security and socio-economic development are the top priorities in Lao. To take all these challenges and new emerging drug problems, the government has approved a 2009 drug strategy: data collection, analysis, demand reduction, HIV/AIDS, civic awareness, law enforcement, criminal justice, and international cooperation, capacity building. Law enforcement capacities have been increased. This will contribute to the rule of law, national security and development. Along the border, we have reinforced our capacity with neighbouring countries.
A comprehensive and balanced approach is necessary. We reaffirm our commitment to developing bilateral and international cooperation.
In 2006, poppy production was significantly decreased, but largely increased again in 2009. The price of opium poppy also increased. Traffic of heroin and ATS also increased, and led to a growing number of users. Reason: lack of alternative development to address the socio-economic needs of producers. The increase in arrests and seizures of drugs shows that Laos is a main road to transnational crime.
National security and socio-economic development are the top priorities in Lao. To take all these challenges and new emerging drug problems, the government has approved a 2009 drug strategy: data collection, analysis, demand reduction, HIV/AIDS, civic awareness, law enforcement, criminal justice, and international cooperation, capacity building. Law enforcement capacities have been increased. This will contribute to the rule of law, national security and development. Along the border, we have reinforced our capacity with neighbouring countries.
A comprehensive and balanced approach is necessary. We reaffirm our commitment to developing bilateral and international cooperation.
CND day 3 - People's Republic of Lao statement on the 52nd CND Plan of Action and Political Declaration
The transnational character of organised crime requires a concerted international cooperation. Laos welcomes the political declaration and plan of action to counter the world drug problem. The approach of the international community must be based on the principle of common and shared responsibility and include comprehensive strategies.
In 2006, poppy production was significantly decreased, but largely increased again in 2009. The price of opium poppy also increased. Traffic of heroin and ATS also increased, and led to a growing number of users. Reason: lack of alternative development to address the socio-economic needs of producers. The increase in arrests and seizures of drugs shows that Laos is a main road to transnational crime.
National security and socio-economic development are the top priorities in Lao. To take all these challenges and new emerging drug problems, the government has approved a 2009 drug strategy: data collection, analysis, demand reduction, HIV/AIDS, civic awareness, law enforcement, criminal justice, and international cooperation, capacity building. Law enforcement capacities have been increased. This will contribute to the rule of law, national security and development. Along the border, we have reinforced our capacity with neighbouring countries.
A comprehensive and balanced approach is necessary. We reaffirm our commitment to developing bilateral and international cooperation.
In 2006, poppy production was significantly decreased, but largely increased again in 2009. The price of opium poppy also increased. Traffic of heroin and ATS also increased, and led to a growing number of users. Reason: lack of alternative development to address the socio-economic needs of producers. The increase in arrests and seizures of drugs shows that Laos is a main road to transnational crime.
National security and socio-economic development are the top priorities in Lao. To take all these challenges and new emerging drug problems, the government has approved a 2009 drug strategy: data collection, analysis, demand reduction, HIV/AIDS, civic awareness, law enforcement, criminal justice, and international cooperation, capacity building. Law enforcement capacities have been increased. This will contribute to the rule of law, national security and development. Along the border, we have reinforced our capacity with neighbouring countries.
A comprehensive and balanced approach is necessary. We reaffirm our commitment to developing bilateral and international cooperation.
CND day 3 - Japan's statement on the CND Plan of Action and Political Declaration
We cannot approach the world drug problem solely from the pharmaceutical point of view. We need to combat international organised crime, dealing with demand and supply reduction, bringing together a number of players, including NGOs.
The UNODC World Drug Report shows that member states have acted with efficiency to limit the world drug problem in their own countries. However, we must emphasize the complexity of the world drug problem, and recognise that each country has specific problems. Globally, we are concerned by the proliferation of synthetic drugs and cannabis.
For synthetic drugs, it is mentioned in the plan of action. It is important to address this problem. We must watch this trend. We must stop the proliferation of this new type of drug. Effective cooperation is necessary, including the capacity building of the law enforcement bodies.
We are also concerned with the proliferation of cannabis and we consider that because of the danger of cannabis, our drug situation is even more complicated. We must control substances that are not currently not controlled by the international drug control but include cannabis elements.
My delegation underscores the importance of being vigilant to stop this new trend internationally and regionally, with the help of bodies such as the UNODC. We must also have sufficient resources so that the fight against drugs is successful.
The UNODC World Drug Report shows that member states have acted with efficiency to limit the world drug problem in their own countries. However, we must emphasize the complexity of the world drug problem, and recognise that each country has specific problems. Globally, we are concerned by the proliferation of synthetic drugs and cannabis.
For synthetic drugs, it is mentioned in the plan of action. It is important to address this problem. We must watch this trend. We must stop the proliferation of this new type of drug. Effective cooperation is necessary, including the capacity building of the law enforcement bodies.
We are also concerned with the proliferation of cannabis and we consider that because of the danger of cannabis, our drug situation is even more complicated. We must control substances that are not currently not controlled by the international drug control but include cannabis elements.
My delegation underscores the importance of being vigilant to stop this new trend internationally and regionally, with the help of bodies such as the UNODC. We must also have sufficient resources so that the fight against drugs is successful.
CND day 3 - India's statement on the 52nd CND Plan of Action and Political Declaration
Last year, the 52nd session of CND adopted the Plan of Action and Political Declaration. India believes in a comprehensive and collaborative manner. IN this regard, we emphasize the importance for a balanced approach supply/demand. There is a need for efforts to reduce poverty and increase the rule of law and democracy. The training of professionals and funding is primordial for a successful policy.
The CND meets annually to finds means to combat the threat of illicit drugs. We are concerned that opium production takes place in India’s neighbourhood. We are also the most important licit producer in the world. We face new challenges: new drugs (ATS) and chemicals are increasing. We need to fight against drug trafficking and organised crime. Abuse of ATS is not yet alarming, but India has already put in place precautionary rules to avoid such issues. India is willing to share its experience and expertise in this problem.
On a macro level, significant gaps remain internationally, especially for precursors. Spreading the net of precursor controls is very important. India urges for such a policy, and the principle of shared responsibility.
New area of concern: misuse of pharmaceutical drugs. This problem needs to be tackled at the global level. We need at least an agreement in principle.
India is committed for the prevention of drug abuse and has built capacity for the support of the UNODC, and is willing to share its experience.
The CND meets annually to finds means to combat the threat of illicit drugs. We are concerned that opium production takes place in India’s neighbourhood. We are also the most important licit producer in the world. We face new challenges: new drugs (ATS) and chemicals are increasing. We need to fight against drug trafficking and organised crime. Abuse of ATS is not yet alarming, but India has already put in place precautionary rules to avoid such issues. India is willing to share its experience and expertise in this problem.
On a macro level, significant gaps remain internationally, especially for precursors. Spreading the net of precursor controls is very important. India urges for such a policy, and the principle of shared responsibility.
New area of concern: misuse of pharmaceutical drugs. This problem needs to be tackled at the global level. We need at least an agreement in principle.
India is committed for the prevention of drug abuse and has built capacity for the support of the UNODC, and is willing to share its experience.
CND Day 3 – Spain on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action on an Integrated and Balanced Strategy to Counter the World Drug Problem
The latest enquiry in Spain shows promising data on a decrease in the consumption of illegal drugs and limitations of access to illegal drugs.
Evaluations were conducted at multiple layers of government, academia, the civil society sector and actors within similar social engines. In order to facilitate classification, the results were organised into areas such as family, community, et cetera. The presentation used a visual format that would provide data in graphics in order to make the information accessible.
The new strategy on drugs developed a plan of action in the area of drugs for 2009-2012 and has a structure similar to the previous plan. This strategy represents all actors, public and private, and includes respect for regional competencies. The plan covers six areas, including coordination; reduction of demand; reduction of supply; improvement of scientific knowledge and training.
The major weight falls on demand reduction. Within that area prevention is a privileged area with 17 actions planned, including risk awareness. Studies of consumption tendencies and consumer profiles are also being compiled and programmes that are evidence-based.
Evaluations were conducted at multiple layers of government, academia, the civil society sector and actors within similar social engines. In order to facilitate classification, the results were organised into areas such as family, community, et cetera. The presentation used a visual format that would provide data in graphics in order to make the information accessible.
The new strategy on drugs developed a plan of action in the area of drugs for 2009-2012 and has a structure similar to the previous plan. This strategy represents all actors, public and private, and includes respect for regional competencies. The plan covers six areas, including coordination; reduction of demand; reduction of supply; improvement of scientific knowledge and training.
The major weight falls on demand reduction. Within that area prevention is a privileged area with 17 actions planned, including risk awareness. Studies of consumption tendencies and consumer profiles are also being compiled and programmes that are evidence-based.
CND Day 3 – Uruguay on the Political Declaration and Plan of Action on an Integrated and Balanced Strategy to Counter the World Drug Problem
Uruguay is committed to confronting the global problem of drugs and has implemented an integrated strategy. This includes its fight against drugs and money laundering as well as promotion health, treatment and harm reduction.
Uruguay has seized 10 tons of drugs that were intended for trafficking and domestic consumption. Uruguay set up its first network of drug assistance which includes treatment options. Uruguay is addressing the problematic consumption of alcohol, as well since it is the widest used drug. A holistic approach also means control and prevention of legally circulated drugs since they also can pave the way for abuse of other substances.
What we have to do is review is our paradigm. Regarding the war on drugs, if it were a ‘war’ then it would preferable to focus on the strategy articulated by Sun Tzu who said “defeat your enemy without entering into a single battle.” But it is not an armed conflict. It is a complex social phenomenon. We have to listen to all voices.
In our hemisphere some people, even former presidents, have expressed various points of view. These voices must be respected. It would be helpful if there were a forum that creates an opportunity for all voices to be heard. The question is how do we control drugs? There is not a single model. There are multiple models.
The best control is that which is part of the cultural heritage of the county concerned. It presupposes political control but one that includes a diversity of voices.
I should like to remind all member states that they have the obligation to respect the right of drug dependent prisoners and all those affected by drugs including the right to life.
Uruguay urged states to ensure access to services for drug dependent people.
Political, judicial and administrative corruption show threats of organised crime but these not just consequences – they are also causes. States that minimise corruption leave themselves open to drug trafficking. The most serious crime is at the highest levels of power. People are marginalised socially and culturally, not only because of poverty, but also because of political plans.
Importance of dialogue in the UN drug control treaty bodies. There is no single model for control. It is a political choice. The best control is that which is built in the community, and the participation of the citizens, opened to all points of view, including diversity, gender, and those affected with the drug policy. Right to life and to a fair trial. Ensure that people who have drug problems access health facilities at the same level as others. Pursuing consumers is harmful and useless. We must make rational, effective and appropriate policies. There has been a disdain concerning drugs for a long time.
Uruguay has seized 10 tons of drugs that were intended for trafficking and domestic consumption. Uruguay set up its first network of drug assistance which includes treatment options. Uruguay is addressing the problematic consumption of alcohol, as well since it is the widest used drug. A holistic approach also means control and prevention of legally circulated drugs since they also can pave the way for abuse of other substances.
What we have to do is review is our paradigm. Regarding the war on drugs, if it were a ‘war’ then it would preferable to focus on the strategy articulated by Sun Tzu who said “defeat your enemy without entering into a single battle.” But it is not an armed conflict. It is a complex social phenomenon. We have to listen to all voices.
In our hemisphere some people, even former presidents, have expressed various points of view. These voices must be respected. It would be helpful if there were a forum that creates an opportunity for all voices to be heard. The question is how do we control drugs? There is not a single model. There are multiple models.
The best control is that which is part of the cultural heritage of the county concerned. It presupposes political control but one that includes a diversity of voices.
I should like to remind all member states that they have the obligation to respect the right of drug dependent prisoners and all those affected by drugs including the right to life.
Uruguay urged states to ensure access to services for drug dependent people.
Political, judicial and administrative corruption show threats of organised crime but these not just consequences – they are also causes. States that minimise corruption leave themselves open to drug trafficking. The most serious crime is at the highest levels of power. People are marginalised socially and culturally, not only because of poverty, but also because of political plans.
Importance of dialogue in the UN drug control treaty bodies. There is no single model for control. It is a political choice. The best control is that which is built in the community, and the participation of the citizens, opened to all points of view, including diversity, gender, and those affected with the drug policy. Right to life and to a fair trial. Ensure that people who have drug problems access health facilities at the same level as others. Pursuing consumers is harmful and useless. We must make rational, effective and appropriate policies. There has been a disdain concerning drugs for a long time.
CND day 3 - Peru's statement on the follow up of the 52nd CND
On the basis of an integral approach, international law and sovereignty of states. We are working to combine strategies to reduce demand and supply and reduce drug trafficking through a sustainable approach. Special survey in the Amazon: San Martin programme. We are looking for the cooperation of added food value. We will make this work available to the international community on Thursday. The main axis should focus on human development, and we have welcomed representatives of Asia countries and experts in the region to observe the details of our experience. We are promoting also an attachment to an ethical compromise to carefully select representatives to prevent the inclusion of drug traffickers. We are going to train political parties to formulate their respective political plans. Also: national strategy to combat drugs through laundering of assets that makes it easier to apply the law: free telephone advice called ‘speak frankly’, in addition to treatment and prevention of drugs: prevent, detect and treat drug dependence.
Statistics on consumption: the starting age is between 12 and 14 years old = urgency requires the promotion of a draft resolution to protect young people for the consumption of drugs. Peru is investing 6 million dollars a year to support institutions working on this area. A project is now dedicating additional resources to mitigate production and consumption of drugs.
2010: plan for rapid impact: not sufficient budget. We need for an integral approach to put appropriate resources to fight against drugs. We must bring together information on international and regional cooperation.
Statistics on consumption: the starting age is between 12 and 14 years old = urgency requires the promotion of a draft resolution to protect young people for the consumption of drugs. Peru is investing 6 million dollars a year to support institutions working on this area. A project is now dedicating additional resources to mitigate production and consumption of drugs.
2010: plan for rapid impact: not sufficient budget. We need for an integral approach to put appropriate resources to fight against drugs. We must bring together information on international and regional cooperation.
CND day 3 - UNODC's introduction of Item 4: Follow up of the Political Declaration and Plan of Action adopted at the 52nd CND
52nd session: evaluation of the progress made, identify priorities, goals and targets for beyond 2009. Balanced strategy was adopted with the Political Declaration and Plan of Action, which recognise that:
1- The Conventions provide the legal framework for action
2- Principle of shared responsibility
3- Supply and demand reduction should be mutually reinforcing.
4- Should include socio-economic aspects and human rights.
Member states committed themselves to implement the plan of action, support the international agencies and civil society, to reporting to the INCB on efforts of implementation, and include on the agenda of the CND to follow up on the implementation of the Political Declaration and Plan of Action.
The impact of the world drug problem on the socio-economic and health and political lives of people is an important problem. Initiatives and actions put in place by governments will now be presented.
1- The Conventions provide the legal framework for action
2- Principle of shared responsibility
3- Supply and demand reduction should be mutually reinforcing.
4- Should include socio-economic aspects and human rights.
Member states committed themselves to implement the plan of action, support the international agencies and civil society, to reporting to the INCB on efforts of implementation, and include on the agenda of the CND to follow up on the implementation of the Political Declaration and Plan of Action.
The impact of the world drug problem on the socio-economic and health and political lives of people is an important problem. Initiatives and actions put in place by governments will now be presented.
CND Day 3- UK on mainstreaming human rights into the UN drug control system
The United Kingdom takes very seriously its human rights commitments and welcomes this detailed and insightful paper from the UNODC.
Moving from human rights commitments to human rights in practice, particularly in the context of drug control, is complex, and requires detailed study.
UNODC has looked inward at its own work and how it can contribute to the progressive realisation of human rights. This is an important first step in beginning to integrate human rights into drug control in line with the commitments made at the World Summit to mainstream human rights throughout UN activities.
It is a difficult challenge, but one we all must meet. Human rights do not stop at the door of the CND. In recent years we have begun to discuss the human rights aspects of drug control here in Vienna and the UK looks forward to continuing that dialogue at future sessions.
The UK is concerned at the resource issues highlighted. UK values funding contributed to his area and would lie to see report transmitted to delegations so the problem can be discussed back home.
Moving from human rights commitments to human rights in practice, particularly in the context of drug control, is complex, and requires detailed study.
UNODC has looked inward at its own work and how it can contribute to the progressive realisation of human rights. This is an important first step in beginning to integrate human rights into drug control in line with the commitments made at the World Summit to mainstream human rights throughout UN activities.
It is a difficult challenge, but one we all must meet. Human rights do not stop at the door of the CND. In recent years we have begun to discuss the human rights aspects of drug control here in Vienna and the UK looks forward to continuing that dialogue at future sessions.
The UK is concerned at the resource issues highlighted. UK values funding contributed to his area and would lie to see report transmitted to delegations so the problem can be discussed back home.
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