Since 1989, the United Nations (UN) has recognized June 26 as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. This day serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of drugs on individuals, families, and communities around the world. Through this annual observance, the UN aims to raise awareness about the global drug problem and encourage people to join the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
This year’s campaign, “Break the Cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime”, focuses on the link between drug abuse and organized crime. The UN recognizes that drug trafficking is not just a health issue, but also a security issue that fuels violence, corruption, and other forms of organized crime. By highlighting this connection, the campaign aims to mobilize individuals and communities to take action against organized crime and work towards a more compassionate world, free of drug abuse.
The theme for this year’s campaign, “Break the Cycle”, emphasizes the need to break the vicious cycle of drug abuse and organized crime. Drug trafficking organizations thrive on the demand for illegal drugs, and in turn, the profits fuel their criminal activities. This cycle perpetuates the harm caused by drugs and poses a threat to the safety and well-being of individuals and societies.
The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has called on governments, civil society organizations, and individuals to join forces to break this cycle. He stated, “We need to act with urgency to prevent drug use, treat the harm, and ensure that people can live in health, dignity, and peace, with security and prosperity.” This sentiment is echoed by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which has been working tirelessly to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking for over 25 years.
Through its various initiatives and programs, the UNODC has been at the forefront of the global fight against drugs. The agency works closely with governments to strengthen their capacity to prevent drug abuse, provide treatment and rehabilitation services, and support law enforcement efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks. It also collaborates with civil society organizations to promote drug prevention and education, especially among young people who are most vulnerable to the influence of drugs.
The UNODC also works closely with the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) to monitor the production, distribution, and consumption of drugs globally. The INCB plays a crucial role in ensuring that countries comply with international drug control treaties and regulations, thereby reducing the availability of illicit drugs. This year, the INCB is focusing on the impact of drug trafficking on communities, particularly in terms of violence and corruption.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the need for collective action to address the drug problem. The lockdowns and other measures put in place to contain the spread of the virus have disrupted drug supply chains, leading to shortages and price increases. This has also resulted in a rise in drug-related violence and exploitation, as drug traffickers seek to maintain their profits.
In the face of these challenges, the UN is calling for a compassionate response to the drug problem. This means treating drug use as a public health issue and providing access to treatment and support for those struggling with addiction. It also means addressing the root causes of drug abuse, such as poverty, inequality, and social marginalization.
On this International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, let us all reflect on the impact of drugs on our societies and recommit to breaking the cycle of drug abuse and organized crime. We must work together to create a world where every individual can live in health, dignity, and peace, free from the harm of drugs. As the UN slogan for this year’s campaign says, “#StopOrganizedCrime. Break the Cycle.” Let us all join hands and take action to make this a reality.
