CND Intersessional meeting – Thematic discussions on the implementation of all international drug policy commitments following up to the 2019 Ministerial Declaration
Secretariat: (administrative and organizational issues)
Chair: Welcome. The topics of the three days of this meeting are identified in the 2019 declaration. One of the challenges is the funding and diversification of drug markets. Two issues include the abuse, illicit cultivation, production, and trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The intricacies have reached rapid levels. The illicit demand for drugs is rising, along with synthetic drugs and the non-medical use of prescription drugs, which increases risks to public health and safety. There are scientific, legal, and regulatory challenges regarding the shifting of substances. Regarding the organizational arrangements adopted by the Commission, the discussion over the next three days will cover several topics. Day one morning will focus on pharmaceutical drugs. Day 2 will cover the challenges in illicit cultivation and production of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, and the topic of illicit trafficking, substances, and precursors. There will also be discussions on the domestic diversion of precursor chemicals and on scientific challenges related to controlled substances. On day three, substantive matters will follow the adoption of the 2024 bi-level declaration, in line with the 2019 ministerial declaration. We aim to foster broad, transparent, and inclusive discussions. The hybrid format allows flexibility and enables global experts and relevant stakeholders to participate. I’m looking forward to a fruitful exchange this year, focusing on addressing the aforementioned issues.
This session is especially timely, following the CND high-level session earlier this year, where urgent needs were recognized for more targeted, data-driven, and coordinated responses. You adopted an important ministerial declaration reaffirming the relevance of international drug control commitments and the role of this Commission in leading implementation. The Commission must provide a space for member states to engage in constructive discussions guided by principles of consensus and compromise to find common solutions. We need innovative solutions to address today’s emerging drug challenges. The drug landscape is evolving and becoming more complex, with new synthetic drugs, criminal networks evading regulations, and gaps in oversight that exacerbate non-medical use. Drug trafficking is now increasingly tied to organized crime. We must continuously adapt resources to address these cross-cutting challenges, as recognized by the ministerial declaration. We need to enhance cross-border collaboration, harness technological innovation like artificial intelligence, and continue to analyze data to stay ahead of emerging threats. We must invest in capacity building and resource mobilization to bridge gaps in knowledge, infrastructure, and funding. Prevention, especially for youth, is critical. I’m proud to have launched the GEMs initiative at CND earlier this year to build children’s resilience against drug use. I encourage you to engage actively in these discussions to shape a safer, healthier world for all.
Mr. John Brandolino, Director, Division for Treaty Affairs, UNODC (reading statement on
behalf of Ms. Ghada WALY, Executive Director, UNODC): It’s a pleasure to speak with you today. While I regret not being able to join in person, these discussions are incredibly timely. Policymakers face complex and interconnected challenges in addressing the root causes of drug production and trafficking. The work of the Commission requires a coordinated effort that brings together health, education, law enforcement, and community organizations. Marginalized and criminalized individuals often suffer the most, and they should be receiving care, not punishment. Gender roles also play a significant role, as men represent the majority of drug users, but women face greater barriers to access and support. Violence related to drug production and trafficking is on the rise, often tied to other illegal activities. The 2024 World Drug Report provides invaluable data that will help guide public policy, although gathering reliable data remains challenging. I commend the 2019 Commission for prioritizing the strengthening of data collection capacities. Artificial intelligence will be key, and I hope it can help answer some of the pressing questions we face. As we implement the 2019 Ministerial Declaration, let’s remain committed to drug policies that are rooted in dignity and equity.
Economic and Social Council: It’s a pleasure to speak to you today. Although I regret not being able to join in person, these discussions are timely. Policy makers face complex and interconnected challenges in addressing the root causes of drug production and trafficking. The work of the Commission requires a coordinated effort bringing together health, education, law enforcement, and community organizations. Marginalized and criminalized individuals often suffer the most, and they should be receiving care, not punishment. Gender roles play a part here, as men represent the majority of drug users, but women face greater barriers. Violence related to drug production and trafficking is on the rise, often tied to other illegal activities. The 2024 World Drug Report provides invaluable data that will guide public policy, though reliable data is difficult to gather. I commend the 2019 Commission for focusing on strengthening capacity for data collection. Artificial intelligence is key, and I hope it can help answer some of the important questions we face. As we implement the 2019 ministerial declaration, let’s stay committed to drug policies rooted in dignity and equity.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom GHEBREYSUS, Director, World Health Organization: Dear Colleagues (data from WDR) No country can tackle drug-related issues without addressing public health concerns, medial and nonmedical use. Our four priorities are (1) Prevention, Treatment and Harm Reduction Servives need to be scaled up. It is essential to integrate evidence based treatment and comprehensive harm reduction services into national health strategies. (2) Surveillance and Early Warning Systems need to be imrpved so public health system can address people in need and so we can foster tailor-made intervention. (3) We must address discrimination, so that people can access care in a safe and fair manner. (4) We must ensure safe and timely access to controlled medicines. We must strike a balance with policies. We remain committed to working with agencies, MS, civil societies and any other actor that prioritizes protecting public health and the wellbeing of humanity.
Prof. Jallal TOUFIQ, INCB President: I’m happy to join the opening of the third intersessional meeting of the 67th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs. My congratulations to Ambassador Johnson and the Bureau for organizing this valuable forum. The meeting builds on the 2019 ministerial declaration and the implementation of international drug policy commitments. The International Narcotics Control Board remains committed to supporting member states in health and welfare through the implementation of the international drug control conventions. Last week, the Board consulted on the human rights dimensions of the drug control conventions, and respecting human rights is essential for compliance.The Board continues to support the availability of internationally controlled medicines during emergencies, ensuring accessibility during crises. We will continue to support capacity building through initiatives like the INCB learning program and encourage member states to engage in e-learning modules and regional training. Today’s discussions will focus on synthetic opioids and the medical use of prescription drugs, an urgent global public health issue. We will also discuss the rapid expansion of synthetic drug markets and the challenges they pose. The INCB’s efforts, including real-time information exchange through the Ionics platform, are proving effective in disrupting drug trafficking networks. I urge you to keep health and well-being at the forefront of your discussions. I look forward to continuing this dialogue with the Commission.
Ms. Carpentier, UNODC: Today’s discussions will focus on the diverse and expanding drug markets. A warm welcome to our panelists and moderator, who will guide us through this session. Before we begin, we’ll touch on some administrative points regarding the session format. We will start with presentations from UNODC colleagues, followed by an expert panel discussion.
So, first, we’ve seen that 300 million people have used a drug in the last year. This is one in 18 people. It’s a lot. This is 20% more than 10 years ago. Of course, this is partly due to population growth, but also because drug use has been increasing. A contributing factor is the rise in the use of stimulant drugs, such as cocaine. We also see that the market is diversifying, which has led to increasingly complex patterns of use. It’s now very common for drug users to engage in polysubstance use, meaning that those suffering from drug use disorders are not only using one drug, but multiple, either simultaneously or at different times. Traffickers continue to innovate, and what we’re seeing now is that the range of new psychoactive substances (NPS) — substances that are not controlled under the conventions — has stabilized at a very high level. Between 50 to 60 new substances enter the global market every year. In 2023, 44 of them were new, meaning they had never been identified before. The NPS market has also shifted. For example, in 2015, synthetic opioids made up only 3% of the NPS market, but now that number is 15%. What’s concerning is the emergence of new synthetic opioids. You may have heard about them, but they’re not exactly new, as they’ve already appeared in North America since 2019. However, since late 2023, we’ve seen several outbreaks in Western Europe, with fatal overdoses. This is worrying. For now, it’s not linked to the decrease in opium production in Afghanistan, so traffickers are testing the markets. But this is a concern, as it might spread. We are also seeing a number of new drug combinations. Not all of them are entirely new. For instance, in South Africa, there’s a drug called “nyaope,” which has been around for two decades, but many others have emerged in the last few years, such as pink cocaine in Latin America, happy water in Southeast Asia, and Bucha in West Africa. These are combinations of various drugs, which may include controlled substances, pharmaceutical drugs, or other substances that may not even be drugs, but are extremely harmful to users. Often, users don’t know what they’re taking. All of this is happening in a context where we still have the traditional drugs, and some of them are really expanding. The supply of cocaine, for example, is increasing. We’ve just received the latest coca survey from Colombia, and it shows a record high in global cocaine production. Trafficking of these drugs seems to be stabilizing at very high levels, as shown on the right side of the graph. Another drug I want to mention is ketamine, which is being misused outside its medical use, especially in veterinary medicine. We’re talking about illicitly manufactured ketamine. This substance dominated some markets in East Asia, particularly between 2014 and 2015, but regulatory changes since then have led to a decline in the market, especially in China. However, in the last few years, there has been a geographic diversification of the ketamine market. We now see manufacturing in countries like Cambodia, which wasn’t the case before, as well as trafficking in regions outside of East Asia, including North America and the Middle East. In the Middle East, we also continue to see high levels of manufacturing and trafficking of Captagon. Captagon contains varying concentrations of amphetamines and is mostly produced in Syria, with some production in Lebanon. It is trafficked to the Gulf countries via land routes, but now there is an increasing transit through other regions, including Eastern, Southern, and Western Europe, as well as North and West Africa, with potential new markets emerging there. Simultaneously, we see the market for methamphetamine in the Middle East growing, which is relatively new. Finally, I want to mention a major shift that has occurred in Central Asia and Eastern Europe over the last decade. These regions were dominated by opioid use, particularly from Afghanistan, but in the last decade, there’s been a shift in the market. Now, the market is dominated by synthetic stimulants, such as methamphetamines. Additionally, in Ukraine, we see a developing market for illicitly produced drugs.
Now we move on to our panel – first is Mr. Benadur, the head of the first Operational Research and Investigation Brigade of the Central Service for the Fight Against Drug Trafficking in the Directorate General of the National Police. Mr. Benadur has been asked to share his thoughts on the most effective methods and sources of information for staying informed about trends in drug use, drug supply, and the emergence of new drugs.
Algeria (panel) Mr. Mahieddine Benadouda, Head of the First Operational Research and Investigation Brigade of the Central Service of the Fight Against Illicit Drug Trafficking, Directorate General of the National Police: We know that drug traffickers have exploited technology to advance criminal activities. Algeria, due to its strategic location as a key corridor between Africa and Europe, faces significant risks related to this issue. The country has developed a comprehensive approach to combating drug trafficking, involving criminal procedures, special security services, and coordinated efforts between various law enforcement agencies. This collaboration has expanded the scope of investigations, enabling more effective responses to criminal activities. Security cooperation is critical in addressing these issues, particularly when it comes to information exchange, which greatly enhances the effectiveness of security operations. Algeria has also utilized special investigative methods to combat drug-related crimes, including techniques like controlled deliveries and rapid response modules. In addition, the country has launched community-based projects aimed at providing alternative opportunities for young people, fostering positive engagement and reducing the appeal of criminal activities. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to strengthen national security and promote social cohesion, particularly in areas that face high levels of vulnerability to drug trafficking.
Thailand (panel) Mr. Apikit Ch.Rojprasert, Deputy Secretary-General, Narcotics Control Board: The situation in Thailand and the broader region, particularly Myanmar, continues to be a major concern. Myanmar remains the predominant source of synthetic drugs, such as methamphetamine. In 2023, despite an overall decrease in some substances, the purity of methamphetamine has remained stable or even increased, signaling a rise in production. There was also a significant increase in the production of “ice” (crystal meth) last year, and its trafficking remains one of the most alarming trends that needs to be closely monitored due to the high level of organized crime involved.Another concerning development is the reemergence of “happy water,” a combination of various substances that is making its way back onto the market, contributing to regional trends in Thailand. Over the last year, we have seen significant seizures of these substances, including nine tons of “ice.” This is a primary concern for Thailand, as “ice” and other synthetic drugs have been widely trafficked to many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea. To address this growing problem, the Thai government has launched the “Quick Win” operation. This initiative aims to reduce drug trafficking by empowering communities to fight back, targeting areas most affected by drug trafficking, particularly along the borders. Corruption within government agencies is also being addressed, and officers involved in illegal activities are being punished. The operation, which began on December of last year, includes the sealing of borders by creating special control areas. These efforts are supported by agencies such as the police, local administration, and customs. The focus is on improving the well-being of people suffering from severe mental disorders related to drug use and reducing violence in affected areas. Since the launch of the operation, there has been significant progress in addressing the health and safety challenges posed by drug trafficking in the region. Therefore, I call on member countries, especially those affected by drug trafficking, and organizations like the UNODC to provide technical and financial support to local governments in these regions. Thank you.
USA (panel) Mr. Berry Fullerton: I am here not as an expert, but as someone who has shared experiences in the diplomatic space, having worked on these issues for 20 years. I’m humbled to be surrounded by experts here on the dais and hope I can shed some light on the experience of the United States in addressing these challenges. As the discussion guide, which I hope all of you read, describes, the proliferation of new psychoactive substances and synthetic drugs presents significant new challenges for all of us worldwide. Drugs are getting cheaper, easier to make, more potent, more unpredictable, and harder to detect. Chloe’s presentation this morning highlighted that while drug threats vary around the globe, we must recognize the common threads that underpin this global shift in the U.S. drug market. These common threads help us identify vulnerable spots in this new business model, as my colleague from Tech spoke about a few months ago. Let’s take a moment to look back—how did we get here? Ask yourself that same question. Looking back, the drugs driving overdose deaths were either prescription opioids or traditional substances. But starting around 2012–2013, we began to see an influx of illicitly made, internationally trafficked synthetic drugs like fentanyl. These substances quickly became a major contributor to overdose deaths in the U.S. I’m from the state of Tennessee, located in the southern U.S., just north of Mississippi and Alabama, and south of Kentucky. Like many parts of the U.S., we suffered tremendously from a massive health epidemic stemming from prescription opioids. If you looked at government data, you would see a drastic rise from the early 2000s to 2012. However, after 2012, there was a rapid decline in prescription opioid use and a massive increase in fentanyl-based drugs. This shift transformed what was once largely considered a domestic prescription opioid crisis into one that not only became a critical health priority for my country but also a foreign policy priority. Initially, the U.S. was concerned that the diffuse, decentralized nature of the illicit fentanyl supply chain meant that any country with internet access and international mail could be vulnerable to collaboration with international partners, including some here on the dais. What we learned was a much broader reality: fentanyl is the most dramatic and invisible manifestation of a much larger trend—rising synthetic drug threats globally. As we’ve seen, other countries have also begun to experience the harms from synthetic drugs, including seizures, hospitalizations, and treatment admissions. We felt an imperative to bring attention to what we saw as a growing global threat and to mobilize a coordinated international response, with countries working together to address production, transit, and consumption. In July 2023, the U.S. Secretary of State invited representatives from over 80 countries and 13 international organizations to come together to establish the Global Coalition Against Synthetic Drug Threats. This coalition was intended to coordinate and strengthen the global response to this challenge that we all recognized. Since July, the coalition has grown to 163 countries and 15 international organizations. Many of you in this room will remember the CND session in March of this year, where Secretary of State Blinken spoke on this issue. You may also recall the summit in New York on the margins of the high-level ministerial week in September, where global leaders committed to taking action. Below the surface, however, the coalition formed three working groups to address different aspects of the synthetic drug threat: 1) preventing illicit drug manufacturing and trafficking, 2) detecting emerging threats, and 3) responding through a public health approach. These working groups meet monthly to exchange data and best practices. Some of you in this room have participated in these virtual meetings across different time zones. The working groups compiled 68 concrete recommendations for governments to take action, along with over 120 existing initiatives to support governments in implementing these actions. One such initiative is the Ionics project—International Operations on New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), which facilitates real-time communication of drug seizures, including synthetic drugs, among law enforcement globally. Thanks to increased use of this platform, we’ve seen over 100,000 incidents of synthetic drug seizures communicated internationally. The coalition’s efforts have also helped raise awareness about concerning trends, like those seen in Sierra Leone, which received international attention. We are also launching an international network of drug legislation experts, where legislatures can collaborate to update laws in response to synthetic drug threats. Additionally, in a few weeks, we hope to launch a donor coordination initiative to explore how we can effectively allocate resources for the long-term impact of these initiatives. Under Ambassador Johnson’s leadership at the CED this year, we took action during the High-Level Segment by making pledges to combat this issue. At this year’s UN General Assembly, President Biden debuted a new pledge signed by global leaders from the coalition, committing to specific actions. I encourage all of you to take a look at these pledges and commit to taking action within your own jurisdictions. The first year of the coalition culminated in these pledges, and year two is focused on implementing them. As we look ahead to 2025, we must work together—governments, international organizations, the private sector, civil society, universities, and individuals—to prevent drug trafficking organizations from exploiting vulnerabilities and provide support and care for those who use drugs. As Chloe mentioned this morning, traffickers manufacturing and selling these dangerous drugs are innovative. To respond, we must continue to be innovative, build partnerships, and strengthen our networks to make the world more resilient to the synthetic drug threats we face. Thank you for your attention.
Costa Rica: We are especially grateful for the topic of this panel, as it enables us to utilize dedicated digital tools designed to enhance cooperation on this global problem. I would like to highlight how useful these tools have been for Costa Rica, particularly the secure communication platform designed for real-time incident reporting. This tool has been invaluable in tracking suspicious activities related to trafficking and illicit manufacturing, helping to prevent these substances from reaching consumer markets. On behalf of the government of Costa Rica, I want to express our appreciation for this support.
China: China would like to share some updates regarding our efforts on this issue. We believe that drug trafficking is a global problem that cannot be solved by any single country alone. Currently, the international drug trade is becoming increasingly complex, with expanding production markets and a wide range of drugs involved. China continues to emphasize both its voice and actions in combating drug crimes, and we have made significant progress in 2023. China seized 5.9 tons of illicit drugs, an 80% increase compared to previous years. Additionally, 0.8 tons of methamphetamine were seized, along with heroin from Europe and the Americas. Some of the methamphetamine and heroin came from Southeast Asia, and cocaine was intercepted from South America. These drugs are often smuggled through international logistics channels or transit via sea to countries such as Australia and New Zealand.In terms of drug abuse, methamphetamine remains the most abused substance in China, followed by heroin. At the same time, the number of drug users continues to grow despite efforts to combat the issue. China stresses the importance of international cooperation, and we are actively working with other countries to address this problem. China will continue to collaborate with the international community to find solutions to the drug trafficking issue.
Algeria: How can international bodies assess the situation (with intersectional issues), and are there any projects aimed at addressing this issue?
USA (panel): The first response from my Chinese colleagues highlighted the importance of sharing data and building international bridges. We believe now is the time to invest in data sharing and use technologies like AI to better understand global trends. We’re excited to launch this effort to gather data. I often quote Secretary Blinken, who emphasized both confidence and humility when addressing borders. We remain focused on the CND and are bringing this coalition to it to galvanize action. As I mentioned earlier, there are over 20 initiatives, and we aim to build support for them and increase their use, drawing on the resources in Vienna, Geneva, and New York to tackle these challenges. We are now focused on true international action.
Ecuador: Thank you to the Secretariat and panelists. I agree with the United States on key concepts like solidarity, cooperation, and shared responsibility, particularly regarding synthetic drugs and the global drug problem. The Coalition on Synthetic Drugs is a good initiative, and Ecuador is actively involved. However, this is a global issue that requires joint effort. Without cooperation, even larger countries like the U.S. will struggle to resolve it. I’d like to hear your thoughts on addressing both synthetic and non-synthetic drugs together. Many countries, including ours, pay with lives due to trafficking. Solidarity is essential, and the CND plays a key role. We appreciate the collaboration and reports shared.
USA (panel): You are correct, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. We have incredible tools here in Vienna. We have introduced them to Ambassdors and I encourage you all to see IONICS at work yourselves.
Venezuela: My question is for the panelists from developing countries like Thailand, Algeria, and others. My country has not yet evolved to detect synthetic drugs and still faces a prevalence of plant-based drugs. I understand the U.S. experience is different, but for these countries, how do you address the shift from traditional plant-based drugs to synthetic drugs? How do you recognize this trend, and when did it peak, if it has? How do you respond to this challenge? Thank you.
USA (panel): In the past, most of the issues have been related to opium, methamphetamine, and other seizures, especially in South Thailand. We have also focused on target analysis, examining how chemicals, particularly those used to produce these substances, are utilized. I hope this answers your question.
Algeria (panel): The spread of synthetic drugs in the market is increasing, we see drugs spreading globally. The production of drugs has grown larger than in the past, as there is more experience and security measures are improving, especially compared to America.
Mexico (panel – online) Psychiatric Care Services at the National Commission of Mental Health and Addictions: We are currently facing a situation where there is an increasing presence of drugs in the market, and people are using a wide range of substances. We also know that many individuals struggling with substance use disorders are often also dealing with mental health issues, creating a cycle where drug use exacerbates mental health problems and vice versa. The question is how to enhance the capacity of member states to address the intersection of mental health disorders and the evolving drug landscape. In recent years, there has been a recognition of the need for policy changes to keep pace with emerging trends, including new drugs, mental health conditions, and factors such as globalization and social networks. Unfortunately, mental health and substance use prevention services have often been fragmented, contributing to issues when both conditions coexist. For example, in Mexico, 62% of drug users report using substances to manage mental health issues like stress, anxiety, depression, or insomnia. There is also evidence that women with substance use disorders often have a history of trauma, which can make them more vulnerable to mental health issues if not addressed. Mexico has been working to improve the integration of mental health and substance use services through its National Commission on Mental Health and Addiction. The country has 341 community centers focused on addiction and mental health, but the services are still insufficient to meet the needs of the population. Despite the challenges, Mexico is making progress in raising awareness about the importance of mental health, and decision-makers are increasingly recognizing its role in addressing substance use. Finally, it is crucial to prioritize mental health in public policy, as this is not just necessary but urgent for improving the wellbeing of individuals in vulnerable situations. Strengthening services and breaking down the historical stigma surrounding mental health are key steps toward addressing these issues effectively. Thank you.
UNODC: Thank you. Let us see of anyone have a question for you? I think it was very interesting moving towards integration between mental health services and addiction services. This is very rare. There are not many countries in the world where this is happening, especially for people with mental health issues. So, asking this question: What other countries or which countries could share with us, perhaps, experiences towards this direction? Thank you. Is it only Mexico? …Perhaps we can learn more from Mexico’s experiences. Thank you.
Mexico (from the floor): First I would like to address my colleague: thank you very much for joining and for your efforts regarding the presentation of diversifying markets, which, by the way, is not addressed in the three existing policy documents we have: the political approach of 2014 and August 2016. In Mexico, we can see a reduction in drug related problems. We have interaction across agencies, we have contact and interaction within areas of various institutions of security in the country. We involve mental health, and make lots of efforts to address the many faucets of issues that are related to drugs. This notion of mental health prevention and programs for addiction is due to the reality we are leaning into. We are very proud to say that, maybe in Latin America, we know that our countries are working on mental health and addictions. We give the perspective of this approach to prevention and treatment. But also, we have these people who use drugs with other kinds of interventions. So, we understand that the situation in the world is very stressful for many people, and many people have anxiety and depression. Anxiety is actually the first reason that people come to services in Mexico. Where we have to see not only the use of drugs, but also the context and the intersectionality with other indicators in the social situation, and also organized crime.
Algeria: (…)
Brazil: Thank you very much for sharing your experience. Brazil has a technological service as part of a set of solutions we offer to addicted people, both alcohol and other kinds of drugs. Alpha units, bio units that go to places where people are, in order to offer psychosocial support, and also units to receive psychosocial orientations. Just to mention the title, but thank you. Thank you very much for sharing your experience.
UNODC: So, I get the green light to move to the next speaker, to the next expert. We have Interpol, Mr. Carter. He is the Director on Organized Crime and Energy Crime Directorate on Criminal Networks. The question we have for you is: Can you reflect a bit on the ways in which technology co-innovations, for example, remote sensing or service technology, can be used to disrupt illicit drug production and trafficking networks? Thank you.
Mr. Carter, INTERPOL (Director on Organized Crime): Great. Thank you. What we see is that criminal groups are resilient, adaptive, and extremely innovative when it comes to drug smuggling. They use the latest technologies, such as encrypted communications, counter-surveillance drones, and very sophisticated smuggling methods to avoid law enforcement. I think that’s where law enforcement has to invest. We have to look at ways to counter that, ways to defeat that. We also see a high level of corruption, and that’s across the globe, in every single country. The lure of easy money is too great. These criminal organizations are making so much money from the sale of illicit drugs, and that, unfortunately, breeds corruption. These criminal groups have no borders, unlimited resources, and they do not adhere to the rule of law, and this is a significant challenge for law enforcement. As these groups shift, as we heard earlier today, to a poly-crime model, criminal organizations use our operational and institutional silos against us, and that’s where Interpol plays a key role. We see that these criminal groups have developed very sophisticated smuggling methods, particularly in the maritime space. If we talk about AIS spoofing, where they’re able to effectively hide or make a vessel invisible, making it show in one part of the world while drugs are in another part of the world. We work closely with all our partners to attack the entire drug supply chain. This involves working with international organization partners, the private sector, and in some cases, the military. Some of the tools being employed, particularly in the Caribbean corridor, fall more under military missions. We need to work with governments to strengthen and adapt the laws to give law enforcement a strong legal framework to address new technologies. We see it time and time again in the encrypted communication space, but also in the asset recovery space, and that’s a key piece. Without that, law enforcement won’t be able to adapt to these challenges. These are Fortune 500 companies, probably Fortune 100 companies. They’re maximizing their profits, minimizing risk, diversifying their markets, and looking for emerging markets. In the field of synthetic drugs, this is where we see a change happening. Many countries are talking about it. We also have to adapt a back-to-basics approach. We like to say that we must reinvest in some of the tried and tested law enforcement investigative techniques. That’s human source handling, surveillance, and undercover operations because the criminal technology is becoming very difficult to infiltrate. As Interpol, we’re uniquely positioned. We are a global law enforcement agency, but we are staffed with active-duty law enforcement officers. We have some breakthrough tools, such as our 19 different databases. These databases allow us to make the world smaller for these criminal organizations by exchanging information. We also have a secure communication platform called I-24/7 to exchange sensitive law enforcement information. Our databases handle 20 million checks a day—about 231 checks per second. We’ve created a global drugs program called IRATE, which stands for Interpol Response Against Illicit Drugs, centered around four key pillars: operations and analysis, capacity building, training, partnerships and outreach, and targeting the proceeds of crime. We have also piloted a new notice, the Silver Notice, designed for member countries to target assets and lead to asset recovery. Technology is great, but the key for law enforcement is the ability to exchange and share data. That is the number one tool in the fight against transnational organized crime. We are working with our international partners to find better ways to collaborate. As criminal organizations look for new ways to defeat us, we must do the same. We have to be creative and collaborative. That’s what these organizations fear most. They fear this type of forum, where we bring law enforcement officers from around the world together to share information about active investigations and work towards a common goal—ensuring the safety and security of our citizens.
USA: To what extent are the tools developed in response to synthetic drugs unique to that threat, or can they also support broader efforts to counter trafficking of substances, including traditional plant-based drugs?
INCB Secretariat: We actually see various networks on different monitoring systems. Yeah, we see a lot of new technology used for NPS but these are integrated systems, so they will show up in traditional markets as well as the darknet.
Italy: So, we’re seeing more complex trends in law enforcement responses that need more data and better information. How do your tools ensure that law enforcement agencies get the right data and information?
Interpol: Great question. All of these points are valid. At Interpol, we aim to stay practical and focus on law enforcement-supported data. One key operation is called Lionfish, a counter-drug operation that we run with member countries. For example, in West Africa, we focused on cocaine smuggling from South America through the region and into Europe. During these operations, we found that polycriminality, or the convergence of different types of crime, was becoming more common. So, to address this, we embedded experts in areas such as firearms, human trafficking, and wildlife trafficking into the operation. This approach yielded outstanding results, including $1.6 million worth of drug seizures, 505 tons of precursors, 206 IEDs, 65 stolen cars, one semi-truck, small arms, and 15 light aircraft. This shows how crime convergence is real and needs to be tackled from multiple angles. The shift toward synthetic drugs is another significant issue we’re monitoring. As heroin supply decreases, there’s a shift to synthetic alternatives, which are more portable, cheaper, and more profitable. These drugs are also easier to produce closer to transportation routes, which creates new challenges. Additionally, we’ve worked with Europol to track encrypted communications. We’ve uncovered significant networks of drug trafficking cells operating across the globe, from Europe to South America and now expanding to West Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Our encrypted communication analysis has revealed a network of ground-based coordinators responsible for global drug operations. This highlights the importance of robust legislation and tools that allow law enforcement to share intelligence across borders.
INCB: Since 2010, the illicit manufacture, trafficking, and misuse of synthetic drugs and related chemicals have marked a paradigm shift from traditional drugs under international control to emerging synthetic drugs. These drugs number in the thousands, and it’s not simply possible to schedule all of the emerging synthetic drugs as their manufacture changes faster than international or domestic legislation can keep up. Therefore, there’s a greater reliance by governments on the exchange of real-time information and actionable intelligence. As mentioned earlier by the International Narcotics Control Board, this shift requires new and creative thinking and approaches, which is why we launched the Project Ion and Ionic system 10 years ago.
Europol: I’d like to add that your point about the increasing signals on encrypted platforms is very timely. We’re working with platforms that help filter noise and focus on the critical signals needed. For example, through our work, we identified shipments of synthetic opioids leaving Italy, which led to a coordinated investigation between U.S. and Italian authorities. This operation dismantled a network using falsified scripts to obtain synthetic opioids. By leveraging machine learning and structured data analysis, we can remove noise and pinpoint actionable intelligence. This collaboration shows how valuable these tools are for law enforcement to act on key data.
UNODC: These are excellent questions. To your point, many drugs in circulation are synthetic and psychoactive, not just the traditional illicit substances. There’s no specific treaty for many of these substances, but there’s growing international recognition of the need for more effective regulation. One example of this is the private exchange system, which has been set up to facilitate information-sharing between governments. Previously, officers had to manually upload data, but now, with the Ionics system, this process is automated. This speeds up the flow of information. For example, we recently provided the U.S. with an intelligence package about synthetic opioids from Italy, which helped kickstart an investigation that led to dismantling an entire smuggling operation. These types of systems make sure the information is both timely and accurate.
Kenya: Kenya also appreciates participating in regional operations, particularly in Afghanistan under the leadership of the INCB and other organizations. As we move forward, it’s important that we use these tools to enhance our regional responses. The African Star operation focused on psychotropic substances and substandard pharmaceuticals, which is a critical issue in our region. Will there be a representative from the INCB available in East and Southern Africa to help with this effort?
INCB: Thank you for that excellent point. The INCB is committed to supporting governments worldwide, but as you noted, we currently do not have a regional technical officer stationed in East Africa. We’re looking into establishing one, but this is a project that depends on extra-budgetary funding. We’re open to further discussions with governments interested in supporting operations in East, Central, and Southern Africa to explore how we can assist in these areas.
UNODC: Thank you for your responses. To continue the conversation, we’d now like to hear from an online speaker from the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime. This will help us understand how we can strengthen the international response to the growing diversification of drug markets, which was also touched on earlier. These trends highlight how drug trafficking organizations are diversifying their illegal activities, especially in conflict zones.
Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime: Thank you, Chair, for the floor and the opportunity to contribute to this discussion. In responding, I will draw on recent research into the synthetic drug known as Kush in West Africa. By April of this year, both Sierra Leone and Liberia had declared national emergencies due to Kush. Kush has become a major concern in the region, particularly due to the barriers to entry in testing and the public accessibility of information about the drug. Governments have struggled to obtain clarity on its composition. Recent research in Sierra Leone, has provided confirmatory laboratory results on the psychoactive components of Kush, one of which includes nitrosines, specifically a combination of protonitazine and protonitels—extremely potent synthetic opioids. These synthetic cannabinoids are the same as those found across Europe and in other regions, including the Indian Ocean islands. These compounds are believed to be imported into West Africa through maritime routes and international postal services. The chemical composition ties into the broader challenges faced by global synthetic drug markets, illustrating three key points:
- The scope and scale of synthetic drugs penetrating markets are accelerating, and responses are struggling to keep pace.
- Kush is just one of many synthetic drugs becoming increasingly prominent across retail markets in West Africa.
- The rapid spread of Kush emphasizes the scale of the threat posed by synthetic drugs, which necessitates an urgent need to improve monitoring and testing capacity, particularly in regions like West Africa, where such resources are limited.
A public health response, as highlighted by the WHO, requires tracking supply chains and identifying intervention points. While sophisticated testing equipment and capacity building are key goals, these should be supplemented with tailored test strips and reagents, which provide vital data quickly and in a more resource-efficient manner. Testing capacity must be enhanced to ensure that government data reflects real-time developments in the market. In areas with limited testing capabilities, the data often fails to reflect evolving market dynamics. Thus, dynamic data collection approaches—both in field testing and granular data—are crucial for effective responses. Finally, while Kush was initially seen as a West African phenomenon, testing has revealed the global interconnectedness of synthetic drug supply chains. This highlights the need for regional and international cooperation, better information sharing, and drawing lessons from other contexts that have faced similar challenges.
UNODC: Thank you very much. We’ve also been aware of some tests, though without concrete evidence. We didn’t initially know about the presence of Kush in the region, which is quite concerning. There are other substances in the field in West Africa, and we are actively looking into those as well. This combination of substances is troubling, as it mirrors what we’ve seen with other drugs, like the rise of cocaine trafficking from Latin America, which has also been spotted in Western Europe. These drugs and combinations evolve over time, and that’s why regular data monitoring is essential. Users might believe they are consuming the same substances they used previously, but the composition could change, leading to severe health consequences. So, the need for constant testing and monitoring cannot be overstated. I have a question for you: Do you have any data on intoxication or emergency services’ response, particularly in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Gambia?
Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime: Thank you for the question. We do have data on the situation in these countries. Official reports, particularly from Sierra Leone, highlight an ongoing issue. There have been consistently high numbers of autopsies, reflecting significant fatalities, particularly in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Gambia, where Kush is widespread. Sierra Leone has reported significant fatalities related to Kush, while the situation seems to have progressed at a slower pace in Guinea. We currently do not have evidence of the same scale of fatalities there.
France: Thank you. I apologize for taking the floor, but I’d like to provide additional information from France. In 2020, they issued alerts through our network, which is available to you if you haven’t received it. This information also highlights illicit manufacturing occurring in the region, which is a critical aspect of the current situation.
South Africa: I have a question regarding the target demographic for these substances. In South Africa, we’ve seen that dealers are increasingly targeting youth. I’m curious whether you’ve observed a similar pattern in West Africa, where youth are being targeted by the market.
Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime: Thank you for the excellent question. We’re indeed seeing that Kush is concentrated among the youth, from around 15 to mid-30s. However, we are also witnessing growing penetration into other sectors of society, including poly-drug users who began using Kush alongside other substances. What’s particularly concerning is that Kush is attracting a significant number of new users who had not previously engaged with drugs. This marks a shift, as synthetic drugs lower the barriers to entry, making it easier for new users to get involved. This wholesale expansion in both drug users and those involved in the criminal market is a key characteristic of the synthetic drug trade. I’d like to add that we were aware of the testing results from France. These results provide a crucial set of insights that enhance our understanding of Kush’s composition. Governments in West Africa should collaborate on this data, especially in areas where testing has been lacking. Additionally, civil society can help raise awareness about the substance and improve harm reduction strategies.
Lithuania: In 2024, during the high-level segment of the 67th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, we made the following pledge to enhance the implementation of international drug policy commitments and address the 2019 Ministerial Declaration: the Republic of Lithuania pledged to establish a national coordination and monitoring mechanism for the assistance and services provided to individuals with addiction disorders by 2029. This initiative aims to improve access to medical, psychological, rehabilitation, and social services. To fulfill this promise, an inter-institutional negotiation process was initiated in Lithuania. Following successful negotiations, the legal foundation for the implementation of this pledge was laid by the Lithuanian Parliament through a resolution. Furthermore, the government of the Republic of Lithuania adopted the 2024-2026 implementation plan for the national agenda on drug, tobacco, and alcohol control, prevention of consumption, and harm reduction measures. This plan also includes Lithuania’s pledge made during the high-level segment of the 67th CND session, and the Republic of Lithuania is committed to its implementation. Additionally, Lithuania has expanded probation measures to provide more effective and comprehensive support for individuals suffering from addiction. A new criminal code includes alternative measures requiring individuals with addictions to participate in special programs focused on prevention, intervention, and resocialization. Moreover, Lithuania aims to ensure greater accessibility to all services, addressing users’ needs and improving access to primary outpatient mental healthcare and assisted services for individuals with addiction disorders. Thank you for your attention.
Italy: Thank you very much for giving us this opportunity, and first of all, for introducing the idea of the pledges. It has indeed been a successful way to encourage more action from member states. As we have heard this morning, more action is certainly needed. Last year, as chair, the Italian Under Secretary of State for Anti-Drug Policies, His Excellency Alfredo Antoine, made the following pledge: In order to enhance the implementation of all international drug policy commitments, I pledge that Italy will fund the UNODC to enhance prevention activities through technical support. This includes providing funding for a pilot project focused on peer-to-peer programs for youth in West and local regions, and considering further support for the UNODC prevention framework and related initiatives. I am honored to share with this distinguished commission that Italy has begun implementing this pledge by providing funds to the UNODC and participating through our experts in the project. Our thanks go to the UNODC team, particularly Joanna Campbell in the Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation section. They have recently completed the development of the prototype for RedX in Fauci, a new peer-to-peer drug prevention program created by global experts in prevention science, as well as a youth consultation group to ensure the program is relatable and understandable for young people. Currently, preparations are underway to begin pre-pilot testing of this new program in Serbia. For those interested in this initiative, whether for participation or further funding, additional information is available on the UNODC website and will be provided during the briefing on the initiative. Thank you.
USA: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Following Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s pledge at this year’s UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs, the U.S. Department of State has committed over $40 million to support a range of international efforts to counter synthetic drugs. These initiatives include supporting ongoing and planned technical assistance programs, as well as collaborations with key stakeholder organizations. The Department of State has focused on meeting the priorities of the now 163-member global coalition to address synthetic drug threats. This includes supporting programs to detect emerging drug threats and patterns, preventing the illicit manufacture and trafficking of synthetic drugs, and promoting public health and treatment interventions. These efforts also encompass activities under the rubric of alternatives to incarceration. During this period, the Department has launched initiatives to counter newly developed synthetic substances and expanded efforts to conduct domestic engagement informed by international efforts. Additionally, new avenues for engagement have been opened with key private sector partners who play crucial roles in countering synthetic drugs.
UNODC: Thank you to everyone for this very interactive discussion. I’d also like to thank the panelists and the Chair for their valuable contributions. Now I open the floor.
EU: Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Being mindful of the time constraints, I will keep my remarks brief. We will post the full text online, hopefully with your support. I’d like to start by noting that wars and conflicts create environments that facilitate the illicit manufacturing and trafficking of drugs, which are closely linked to transnational organized crime. These conflicts also severely impact healthcare facilities, transport, and supplies. In recent years, we have seen significant changes in the drug market, which could have long-term implications, including on the availability and purity of heroin. This could lead to shifts in drug production, trafficking, and use. At the same time, the supply of stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine has reached record highs in the last two years. According to the European Union Drugs Agency, the European Drug Report has highlighted the resurgence of well-known psychoactive substances in Europe, some of which, such as caffeine, have been seized in industrial quantities. These are concerning trends. The European Drug Report also notes that there has been a significant increase in drug seizures by customs authorities at EU ports. In response to these growing challenges, EU member states, along with several other players, have taken action to combat drug trafficking and organized crime. For example, the European Ports Alliance was launched last January. This initiative includes a public-private partnership aimed at increasing the resilience of Europe’s key logistical hubs against drug trafficking and infiltration by organized crime groups. Given the global expansion of the drug trade and the borderless nature of organized crime, it remains crucial to collaborate with international partners. The EU, for instance, has initiated the Global Coordination and Cooperation Against Synthetic Drug Threats, which we’ve heard about today. We also welcome the UN General Assembly’s adoption of a resolution in December 2023 addressing the global public health and security challenges posed by synthetic drugs. Similarly, the EU is preparing for the adoption of a resolution by the Commission on Narcotic Drugs in March 2024, focused on overdose prevention, including prevention, treatment, care, recovery measures, and harm reduction. Finally, in line with the EU Drug Strategy, we remain committed to working with Latin America, the Caribbean, Central Asia, and China through regular dialogues on drug-related issues. The importance of these thematic discussions cannot be overstated, as they are essential in identifying key problem areas and paving the way for effective solutions. We thank you for organizing this important meeting.
Venezuela: The Republic of Venezuela reaffirms its commitment to combating drug trafficking in light of the increasing diversification of the national drug market. Although plant-based drugs remain the most common, representing 90% of the market, in recent years, authorities have reported an increase in substances such as 2C-B and other synthetic drugs. Since 2033, the presence of ketamine has also risen, presenting new challenges. To address these challenges, Venezuela has implemented measures to enhance security forces and prioritize preventive strategies. This approach emphasizes citizen safety and aligns with our sovereign approach to drug policy, which includes policies for prevention, treatment, and social integration. Mr. Chairman, Venezuela continues to recognize the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) and international control as central to addressing global drug issues. We also stress that cooperation must respect the sovereignty of each state. We oppose attempts to weaken the existing conventions through new approaches or experiences, and instead call on member states to reinforce their commitments to these conventions.
Australia: Distinguished delegates, Australia’s illicit drug markets have largely remained unchanged. However, we have seen a steady increase in seizures since 2021, indicating a growing illicit market. We continue to observe novel benzodiazepines and synthetic cathinones in emergency room presentations, and our National Early Warning System has issued drug alerts to monitor these trends. In response, Australia has established networks to monitor emerging substances, including the National Gluco Surveillance Reporting System and collaborations with international partners such as the UNODC. Australia is also utilizing advanced analytics tools for pattern recognition at airports, seaports, and land crossings, to identify trends in emerging drug threats. We support initiatives like the ICB’s work under the CRITs program, aimed at reducing the trafficking of new psychoactive substances (NPS), and remain committed to constructive international cooperation.
Brazil is facing growing challenges related to synthetic drugs, particularly in marginalized communities where organized crime exploits socio-economic conditions, exacerbating violence and insecurity. Our primary focus is to prioritize dismantling criminal networks rather than penalizing end users, who often suffer from addiction and require assistance, not incarceration. Brazil has expanded harm reduction interventions and community-based prevention programs to address the root causes of drug involvement, including youth education and skills training to prevent recruitment into the illegal drug trade. Brazil works closely with regional and international partners to strengthen cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking. We are particularly grateful for our partnership with Singapore and the National Central Bureau.
Canada: As many in this room know, Canada is experiencing an unrelenting overdose crisis driven by dangerous illegal drugs supplied by organized crime groups, which include fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. Between January 2016 and March 2024, more than 47,000 Canadians lost their lives to opioid-related overdoses. In the first few months of 2024 alone, fentanyl and its analogs accounted for 81% of all accidental opioid toxicities. While fentanyl and its analogs continue to dominate the illegal drug market in Canada, the detection of other substances, such as benzodiazepines and tranquilizers, has increased, making the drug supply more dangerous, volatile, and unpredictable. In this rapidly changing global drug market, it is critical to develop tools that help identify both current and emerging drugs in the illegal market, ultimately preventing deaths and saving lives. Canada sends notifications to law enforcement partners and the public when a potentially harmful substance or mixture is encountered for the first time in a region. This information is published on a publicly accessible drug mapping website, which is updated monthly. We also recently launched the Canadian Drug and Substance Watch Tool, a public platform that highlights new and emerging psychoactive substances appearing in our illegal drug supply. This tool consolidates data from various sources, including drug samples submitted by Canadian law enforcement and public health officials, as well as wastewater data and online marketing. Drug-checking services and public health tools in Canada allow us to capture timely and detailed information on the contents of our illegal drug supply. These services not only give people who use drugs the opportunity to make informed decisions that may reduce the risk of overdose, but also provide essential data for authorities such as the RCMP, healthcare workers, and other stakeholders. While strengthening our national data collection to detect emerging drugs is important, international cooperation is equally imperative. As we heard from our panel this morning, timely information is needed to address the diversification of the global illegal drug market. Canada is working closely with organizations like the INCB and INTERPOL to enhance international cooperation and information sharing. We have been proud to support the UNODC over the past several years and have worked with them to support national authorities in Chile, El Salvador, and Guatemala, helping to create or strengthen their national early warning systems. These systems generate evidence used in decisions to place new synthetic drugs under international control. In closing, we greatly value the partnerships we have with the UNODC, the INCB, INTERPOL, member states, civil society organizations, and people with lived experience. These collaborations help strengthen our capacity to address the evolving dangers posed by illegal drug supplies in Canada.
Russia: Russia is committed to the provisions of key international anti-drug conventions, aligning its national policies with these principles. We have seen a decrease in the number of drug users, with fewer than 550,000 reported at the beginning of this year. Additionally, we have managed to stabilize the share of drug-related crimes in the total amount of criminal activities nationwide and have achieved a sustainable reduction in the number of drug-related offenses. However, we recognize that maintaining these positive trends requires constant monitoring of emerging threats and researching optimal ways to counteract them. There is a growing global imbalance in the approaches countries take to combat drug trafficking and non-medical drug consumption. This imbalance is shifting toward prioritizing the rights of drug users, which can create confusion. For example, in countries with more liberal drug consumption laws, there are issues with small amounts of drugs being trafficked, which complicates enforcement. We feel sympathy for individuals caught in these circumstances, but as you would agree, no state can allow foreigners or its citizens to disregard the country’s laws. Drug trafficking remains a serious challenge, and Russia has taken several steps to address this. We have focused on controlling precursor chemicals and active substances within a short timeframe. This has allowed us to establish more effective control over their trafficking. Our law enforcement agencies continuously monitor international information systems and the dark web for these substances, as well as reviewing scientific research and publications. In the past seven years, Russia has controlled over 160 substances and their derivatives, including nearly 1,500 synthetic psychoactive substances, over 80 precursors, and 4 major substances deemed potentially dangerous. However, we face a situation where many of these substances, especially precursors, are supplied from abroad, where they are often legally available. These goods are transported through commercial channels, complicating enforcement efforts. While we have made significant progress, the challenge remains complex, especially with substances that remain unregulated in some foreign markets. In terms of drug-related deaths, we have seen a marked decrease in recent years, despite some increases in the availability of drug mixtures that are becoming more widespread. However, the majority of drug-related deaths occur in the shadow drug market, which is difficult to control. To combat this, we have implemented measures that not only target trafficking but also focus on raising awareness about the dangers of drug use. We continue to ensure that medical supplies and treatment options are available to those in need, while taking action to prevent the illegal market from thriving, where prices can be ten times higher than legal alternatives. I would like to draw your attention to the fact that Russia has seen stable, positive trends in drug control, thanks to full compliance with national policies. We believe that drug liberalization initiatives and attempts to create alternative international legislation do not bring us closer to solving the global drug problem. Thank you for your attention.
Peru: Chair, according to the UNODC Drug Report 2024, member states are facing a complex and evolving global drug landscape, characterized by a wider range of substances and increasingly diversified markets. Therefore, we welcome discussions on this issue. I would like to introduce the concept of conflict integration and how it can be an integral part of risk management in plant monitoring and control. Although significantly affected by synthetic drugs, the drug market is not only broadening in terms of the types of drugs, but also diversifying in its markets. Cocaine production has reached unprecedented levels, with regular high cultivation and production in the Andean region. Research shows that this rise in production is accompanied by increased violence, corruption, and environmental harm, particularly in the Amazon. In addition, international drug cartels have expanded their activities to non-traditional markets, notably in Asia and Africa. Peru, as a major coca-producing country, has responded with alternative development programs to help coca farmers transition to legal livelihoods and reduce their dependence on coca cultivation. These programs are aligned with the UNODC’s strategy of addressing the socio-economic root causes of drug production by supporting vulnerable communities and indigenous peoples involved in the drug economy. On the public health side, Peru’s drug policy emphasizes harm reduction. In Colombia, the government has implemented preventive education campaigns targeting youth, while expanding access to healthcare and rehabilitation for those affected by drug use. As the global drug market continues to diversify, the use of multiple drugs (polydrug use) is leading to an increase in related crimes, as mentioned by the representative from the Interpol. I also want to highlight the situation in the Golden Triangle region, which involves countries such as Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. The drug trafficking routes in this region are increasingly involving private housing companies and other sectors in illicit activities. In East Asia, countries such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong are seeing significantly higher levels of drug trafficking, particularly of synthetic drugs like methamphetamine. The use of cryptocurrencies has made investigations into drug trafficking more complicated, adding a layer of complexity to enforcement efforts. Financial losses and challenges in tracking financial transactions also hinder investigations. In response, we need continued support for enforcement agencies and enhanced cooperation among international partners to improve drug control measures. Thank you.
Colombia: Not much has changed in the global landscape since our last thematic discussions a year ago. In fact, findings from various sources, including the world drug policy reports produced here in Vienna, show that we have yet to effectively address the challenges posed by naturally-based drugs, even as many countries are already facing a public health crisis due to drug use. The drug market is diversifying, and this challenge is not limited to one country or region. Despite the efforts that U.S. member states have made over decades, and the vast human and financial resources my country has invested—some might say, wasted—on this issue, we continue to experience failures, with tragic losses of human lives. This indicates that the global approach we’ve been applying has not delivered the expected results. It’s not because we haven’t followed each step of the proposed framework, but because we are missing something fundamental in our strategy. What are we doing wrong? Could our failures be pushing drug users toward more dangerous substances? Could we be fueling the shift to synthetic drugs, which are more detectable, harder to regulate, and pose a greater danger? Should we be questioning whether the rise of synthetic drugs, like those in Afghanistan, is the result of traffickers shifting toward more dangerous substances as a response to our policies? Global drug markets are becoming more vulnerable to diversification, with new psychoactive substances now flooding communities. These substances are far more dangerous than traditional drugs like cocaine, yet policies remain unchanged. Each year, particularly in my country, attention continues to focus on coca cultivation, as if the danger lies solely in rural crops. We now understand that synthetic drugs present an even greater threat, but this is often overlooked. I don’t wish for any other country to suffer as we have. What I am calling for is a renewed approach. It’s time we rethink our strategy and consider whether the tools at our disposal are adequate for the broad challenges we face. We need to pursue a more balanced, humane, and effective response to drugs that prioritizes public health, prevention, and access to treatment services globally.To address the critical evolution of drug markets, we must strengthen international cooperatio n. Organized international groups are adapting faster than we are, outpacing our efforts. Innovative responses are more essential than ever to manage the persistent growth and diversification of illicit drug markets. For Colombia, the creative diversification of drug markets and the expansion of synthetic substances highlight the urgent need to critically review the weaknesses in our current drug policy framework.
Chair: Thank you everyone, we are breaking for lunch.