Item 5. Implementation of the international drug control treaties (continued)
(a) Changes in the scope of control of substances
Chair: First, Commission will consider recommendations of WHO on 4 substances, namely: (a) Whether or not it wishes to include N-pyrrolidino protonitazene in Schedule I of the 1961 Convention as amended; (b) Whether or not it wishes to include N-pyrrolidino metonitazene in Schedule I of the 1961 Convention as amended; (c) Whether or not it wishes to include etonitazepipne in Schedule I of the 1961 Convention as amended; (d) Whether or not it wishes to include N-desethyl isotonitazene in Schedule I of the 1961 Convention as amended. Then, Commission will consider (a) Whether it wishes to place hexahydrocannabinol in Schedule II of the 1971 Convention or, if not, what other action, if any, might be required; (b) Whether it wishes to place carisoprodol in Schedule IV of the 1971 Convention or, if not, what other action, if any, might be required.
WHO: The first substance recommended is N-pyrrolidino protonitazene. Alternate name: protonitazepyne. It is a synthetic opioid. IN-Pyrrolidino protonitazene has been described as a beige powder or a white colourless or crystalline solid. N-Pyrrolidino protonitazene has been identified in falsified pharmaceutical opioid tablets. Its use has been related to hospital admissions. N-pyrrolidino protonitazene is reported to be administered via various routes, including smoking and injection. Its effects are blocked by the opioid antagonist naltrexone. Reported in 3 regions. Liable to abuse and produces ill-effects similar to those included in Schedule I of the 1961 Convention. Causes substantial harm, including death. It has no known medical use. WHO suggest it be added to Schedule I of 1961 Convention.
Chair: I open the floor. We seem ready to move to vote. We have necessary quorum. A simple majority of members present and voting is required.
In favor: Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Cote D’Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Finland, France, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lithuania, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Hungary, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, UK, Tanzania, USA, Uruguay, Zimbabwe
Against: none
Abstaining: none
Chair: Total of 49 votes in favor, none against and no abstentions. Commission has decided to include N-pyrrolidino protonitazene in Schedule I of 1961 Convention.
WHO: Second substance recommended to be included in Schedule I of the 1961 Convention is N-pyrrolidino metonitazene. N-Pyrrolidino metonitazene (IUPAC name: 2-[(4-methoxyphenyl)methyl]-5-nitro-1- (2-pyrrolidin-1-ylethyl)-1H-benzoimidazole), also known as metonitazepyne, is a 5-nitro-2-benzylbenzimidazole synthetic opioid. N-Pyrrolidino metonitazene has been described as a beige powder. Multiple deaths have been reported in which the presence of N-pyrrolidino metonitazene was analytically confirmed, including one death in which no other opioids were involved. Other substances were detected in all other cases. N-Pyrrolidino metonitazene is reported to be administered by injection. Its effects are blocked by the opioid antagonist naltrexone. Reported in multiple countries in 2 regions. Liable to abuse and produces ill-effects similar to those included in Schedule I of the 1961 Convention. Causes substantial harm, including death. It has no known medical use.
Chair: See no request for floor. Ask Commission to proceed to vote: Liable to abuse and produces ill-effects similar to those included in Schedule I of the 1961 Convention. Causes substantial harm, including death. It has no known medical use.
In favor: Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Cote D’Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Finland, France, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lithuania, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Hungary, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, UK, Tanzania, USA, Uruguay, Zimbabwe
Against: none
Abstain: none
Chair: Total of 50 votes in favor, none against, no abstentions. Commission has decided to add N-pyrrolidino protonitazene to Schedule I of the 1961 Convention.
WHO: Etonitazepipne (IUPAC name: 2-[(4-ethoxyphenyl)methyl]-5-nitro-1-(2-piperidin-1- ylethyl)-1H-benzoimidazole), also known as N-piperidinyl etonitazene, is a 5-nitro2-benzylbenzimidazole synthetic opioid. Etonitazepipne has been described as a crystalline solid or a white-yellowish or yellow powder. Etonitazepipne has been identified in falsified pharmaceutical opioid tablets, has not previously been reviewed by WHO and is not currently under international control, poses a risk to public health and has no recognized therapeutic use.Studies in animals have demonstrated that etonitazepipne is a full agonist at μ-opioid receptors, with greater potency than morphine, similar to that of fentanyl, depending on the study model. Its effects are blocked by the opioid antagonist naltrexone. Studies in humans have demonstrated that its adverse effects include respiratory depression and reduced consciousness, which were reversed by the opioid antagonist naloxone. Dependence potential in animals or humans have been reported. Non-fatal intoxications requiring hospitalization have been reported. Multiple deaths in which the use of etonitazepipne was analytically confirmed have been reported in at least two regions, including some in which etonitazepipne was considered the primary cause of death or no other substances were involved. Online self-reports indicate typical opioid effects, including relaxation, euphoria and sedation. Seizures of etonitazepipne have been reported in multiple countries and regions.Etonitazepipne is not known to have any therapeutic use. Recommendation: Etonitazepipne, also referred to as N-piperidinyl etonitazene to be added to Schedule I of the 1961 Convention as amended.
Chair: No comments, we vote as per Rule 58.
In favor: Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Finland, France, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lithuania, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Hungary, Peru, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad, Tunisia, UK, Tanzania, USA, Uruguay, and Zimbabwe.
Abstain; none
Against: none
Chair: N-piperidinyl etonitazene added to Schedule I of the 1961 Convention. We move to the next recommendation.
WHO: N-Desethyl isotonitazene (IUPAC name: N-ethyl-2-[[4-(1- methylethoxy)phenyl]methyl]-5-nitro-1H-benzimidazole-1-ethanamine), also known as norisotonitazene, is a synthetic opioid. N-Desethyl isotonitazene hydrochloride has been described as a crystalline solid. and round blue tablets. It has not previously been reviewed by WHO and is not currently under international control. Similarity to known substances and effects on the central nervous system N-Desethyl isotonitazene is a major metabolite of, and has a chemical structure and effects similar to those of, isotonitazene, which is controlled under Schedule I of the 1961 Convention as amended. Its potency varies from similar to, to greater than, that of fentanyl, depending on the study model. Its effects are blocked by the opioid antagonists naltrexone and naloxone. Its adverse effects, including analgesia, euphoria, miosis, muscle rigidity, unconsciousness, sedation, respiratory depression, coma and hypercapnia, are consistent with opioid toxicity. No controlled studies of the dependence potential of N-desethyl isotonitazene in animals or humans have been reported. As it is a potent µ-opioid receptor agonist, it would be expected to produce dependence similar to that produced by other opioids, such as morphine and fentanyl.In animals, N-desethyl isotonitazene had potent opioid effects and abuse potential. These effects were blocked by the opioid antagonist naltrexone. Multiple deaths and hospital admissions have been reported in at least two regions, including deaths to which N-desethyl isotonitazene was considered to have contributed. Seizures of N-desethyl isotonitazene have been reported in multiple countries in three region and is not known to have any therapeutic use. Recommendation: the Committee recommended that N-desethyl isotonitazene, also referred to as norisotonitazene, be added to Schedule I of the 1961 Convention as amended.
In favor: Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Finland, France, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lithuania, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Hungary, Peru, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad, Tunisia, UK, Tanzania, USA, Uruguay, and Zimbabwe.
Abstain: none
Against: none
Chair: N-Desethyl isotonitazene added to Schedule I of the 1961 Convention.
CND: We now move to scheduling of substances under the 1971 Convention. I move to Hexahydrocannabinol to be added to Schedule II of the 1971 Convention.
WHO: The substance to be added to Schedule II of the 1971 Convention. The recommendation is in reference to hexahydrocannabinol also known as HHC. Hexahydrocannabinol has been described as a colourless viscous oil or resin that changes to dark orange after exposure to oxygen. Products containing hexahydrocannabinol include low-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabis flowers and resins infused or sprayed with the substance, e-liquids and cartridges for electronic cigarettes, edible products such as gummies and marshmallows, tinctures resembling dietary supplements and distillate oils. The routes of administration include inhalation, oral and sublingual. Hexahydrocannabinol has not previously been reviewed by WHO and is not currently under international control. Information was brought to the attention of WHO that the substance is manufactured clandestinely, poses a risk to public health and has no recognized therapeutic use. The (9R)-hexahydrocannabinol epimer has CB1 and CB2 receptor binding affinity similar to that of delta-9-THC. Hexahydrocannabinol acts as a partial agonist at the CB1 receptor, as does delta-9-THC, and produces psychoactive effects, including adverse effects, similar to those produced by delta-9-THC. In animals, it has been shown to produce behavioural effects consistent with delta-9-THC. In humans, sleepiness, euphoria, anxiety, agitation, psychosis, tremors and disorientation have been reported, in addition to respiratory, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal effects. Hexahydrocannabinol is found in trace amounts as a phytocannabinoid in cannabis plants but is usually synthesized from cannabidiol. No studies of the dependence potential of hexahydrocannabinol in animals or humans have been reported. Its effects at CB1 receptors suggest that it would produce dependence similar to that produced by other cannabinoid partial agonists, such as delta-9-THC. Withdrawal effects in humans have been reported, and multiple countries have reported that people who use hexahydrocannabinol have presented for treatment of drug dependence. Adverse effects include people presenting, at emergency departments, with non-fatal intoxication and exhibiting symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, unconsciousness, psychosis (hallucinations, delusions and paranoia), anxiety, panic attacks, depression, hypertension, nausea and vomiting, which are similar to the symptoms seen in cases involving delta-9-THC. The presence of hexahydrocannabinol has been analytically confirmed in people driving under the influence of drugs and in clinical admissions for drug intoxication in adults and children in multiple countries, including cases in which hexahydrocannabinol was confirmed to be the only substance involved. Seizures of hexahydrocannabinol have been reported in many countries in a number of regions. Hexahydrocannabinol is not known to have any therapeutic use. We recommend the scheduling in Schedule II.
Chair: I see no comments: According to Article 17 a ⅔ majority is required meaning at least 36 members are needed. We vote:
In favour: Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Finland, France, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lithuania, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Hungary, Peru, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad, Tunisia, UK, Tanzania, Uruguay, and Zimbabwe.
Abstain: USA
Against: None.
Chair: The commission has decided to include Hexahydrocannabinol in Schedule II of 1971 Convention.
WHO: To be added to Schedule IV of the 1971 Convention. Carisoprodol. IUPAC name: 2-[(carbamoyloxy)methyl]-2-methylpentyl(1-methylethyl)carbamate. International Nonproprietary Name: carisoprodol. is a centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant sold as a singleingredient preparation and in combination products. Carisoprodol is available as a pharmaceutical product in tablet form, has been detected in falsified pharmaceuticals and is also found as a white powder. Carisoprodol is metabolized to meprobamate and has effects similar to those of other central nervous system depressants, such as meprobamate, phenobarbital, diazepam and chlordiazepoxide, which are listed under schedule IV of the 1971 Convention. Public health harms, including cases of driving under the influence of the drug and non-fatal and fatal intoxications, due to carisoprodol alone or in combination with other substances, have been observed.
Chair: I open the floor.
Brazil: Of the view that it is better to postpone as further studies are necessary. This is not under control in Brazil and there have been no issues. It would require several administrative measures, and could lead to economic impacts of handling the substance for licit uses.
Chair: Noted. However we will move to a vote. 2/3rds majority required, at least 36 members.
In favor: Algeria, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Finland, France, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lithuania, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Peru, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad, Tunisia, UK, Tanzania, Uruguay, and Zimbabwe.
Against: none
Abstain: Brazil, USA
Chair: 48 in favor, 0 against, 2 abstentions. The Commission has decided to include it in Schedule IV of the 1971 Convention. Give the floor for explanation.
USA: While we support the use of the international scheduling system to make scientifically informed decisions, we were unable to to vote on HHC and Carisoprodol. Nevertheless, both of these substances are already controlled domestically that will allow the United States to sufficiently control these substances.
Chair: Finished consideration of WHO recommendations. I give the floor to the President of the International Narcotics Control Board.
INCB: This year there is no scheduling recommendation from INCB. There is a proposal to move the methyl ester of 3,4-MDP-2-P methyl glycidic acid from the body of Table I of the Convention to footnote 1 to that Table as introduced in accordance with Commission decision 67/25. At its sixty-seventh session, held in March 2024, the Commission on Narcotic Drugs decided to include the ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl and tert-butyl esters of 3,4-MDP-2-P methyl glycidic acid in Table I of the United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances of 1988 (Commission decisions 67/18 to 67/24). Furthermore, through its decision 67/25, the Commission decided to include the ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl and tert-butyl esters of 3,4-MDP2-P methyl glycidic acid in Table I of the 1988 Convention in the form of a footnote to 3,4-MDP-2-P methyl glycidic acid. The Board had found that while seven esters of 3,4-MDP-2-P methyl glycidic acid were included in a footnote pursuant to Commission decision 67/25 of March 2024, the methyl ester, which had been added to Table I in November 2019, was still included in the body of that table (as 3,4-MDP-2-P methyl glycidate (“PMK glycidate”)). As communicated by the President, the Board therefore proposed that the methyl ester be removed from the body of Table I of the 1988 Convention and included in the same footnote so that it appeared together with the other seven esters (as the “methyl ester”).
Chair: I see no objections. It is so decided. We have finalized agenda Item 5(a). Any comments from the floor?
Kenya supports recommendations. WHO to consider further evaluation of tramadol and continue the discussion of ketamine, whose misuse is on the rise. We call for WHO for further review and advice on control measures.
Nigeria: We thank WHO on their work and we want to put on record that we have been a target of highly addictive pills shipments – muscle relaxes with addictive potential that pose a big threat to public health. Unlike other opioids, tramadol is not internationally controlled making it accessible in Africa and is flooded on our markets far exceeding medically approved thresholds and is becoming a public health threat, fuelling organized crime. Our collab with UNODC has taken a significant stride in countering illegal drug markets, however we would like to see tramadol as a controlled substance.
India: Scheduling is a central feature of the international drug control framework. There might be instances where WHO has not recommended a substance for control and yet, a MS decides to control it as a psychotropic – case and point, India. There are certain pharmaceutical products that have been notified by India as narcotropic substances, such as ketamine and tramadol. We remain committed to maintaining a system that caters to the healthcare needs of the world and prevents diversion of medicines.
Instituto Ria: tba
(d) International cooperation to ensure the availability of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances for medical and scientific purposes while preventing their diversion
Indonesia: Our national policy framework ensures that substances for legitimate medical and scientific purposes remain accessible while preventing diversion. The Ministry of Health has established a comprehensive system for the prescription and distribution of narcotic and psychotropic medications. An integrated narcotics and psychotropics reporting system connects healthcare providers and pharmacies through a streamlined application, enabling real-time tracking of controlled substances. This has significantly improved our ability to identify diversion points. Additionally, we have analyzed data on the use of psychotropic-containing drugs across Indonesia to ensure an adequate government response. We remain committed to working with international partners to strengthen global cooperation, ensuring access while preventing misuse.
Russian Federation: We would like to share the consistent steps we have taken to ensure the availability of substances for medical and research purposes. Our approach is based on four key instruments: National Legislation – A legal framework ensuring accessibility while preventing misuse. Data-Driven Needs Assessment – Availability is determined using statistics and estimates based on mortality rates. Centralized Manufacturing & Distribution – A single national manufacturer, supported by federal funding, ensures sufficient medicines are available across the supply chain. Comprehensive Tracking System – A digital information system traces the circulation of medicines to the final consumer. Additionally, we have improved the availability of non-invasive long-form preparations, including naloxone. Continuous training for healthcare professionals is conducted through federal centers, where compliance is documented by scientific bodies. Ensuring availability is a multi-faceted effort that requires broad interagency cooperation. Notably, we have significantly increased access to essential medicines for palliative care patients.
China: While strengthening drug control and preventing diversion, we have also adopted measures to ensure availability for medical and scientific purposes. On the legislative front, the Drug Administration Act provides guidelines for prescriptions. Our drug regulatory authority has developed a special module within the national traceability system, which assigns traceable codes to drug packages. This enables dynamic monitoring and serves as an early warning system. Clinical needs drive our actions – fluctuations in demand are closely monitored to adjust production accordingly. Before modifying control levels, we assess the impact on clinical use. Import and export licenses are issued to ensure smooth supply chains. To enhance regulation, we oversee prescription authorities and implement mandatory training for doctors and pharmacists, including exams. Awareness campaigns on the rational use of controlled substances are also underway.
Ghana: Ghana underscores the critical need to address inequitable access to internationally controlled essential medicines in Africa, framing it as a moral imperative tied to health equity, sustainable development, and human rights. Inequitable access to internationally controlled essential medicines like morphine and methadone are vital for pain management and public health, yet systemic barriers, outdated regulations, and global neglect hinder their availability in Africa. The disparity is stark, with opioid consumption 50 times higher in high-income countries than in low- and middle-income ones. Within Africa, francophone nations face greater challenges compared to anglophone counterparts due to weaker healthcare infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. Mr. Chair, key barriers include overly restrictive regulations shaped by international drug control conventions, colonial legacies that left African nations with underdeveloped health systems, cultural stigma around opioids, inadequate workforce training, and insufficient global support. Despite commitments to the right to health, high-income countries and global institutions have failed to provide adequate technical and financial assistance. Mr. Chair, Ghana proposes a multi-stakeholder approach to address these challenges. Inter-agency collaboration is vital to harmonize health and drug control policies while providing technical assistance to strengthen regulatory frameworks and supply chains. Member states, particularly high-income nations, must fulfil their moral and legal obligations by offering financial resources and expertise to build resilient pharmaceutical industries in Africa. South-South cooperation is also encouraged, leveraging advanced pharmaceutical sectors in countries like South Africa to support neighbouring nations. Mr. Chair, civil society organizations play a crucial role in combating stigma, advocating for policy reforms, educating communities, and holding governments accountable. Regional platforms like the African Union should be used to harmonize policies across countries and amplify Africa’s voice globally. Ghana underlines the importance of decolonization and restorative justice, urging former colonial powers to invest in local production of inequitable access to internationally controlled essential medicines as part of reparatory justice. This would reduce dependency on imports, strengthen regional supply chains, and foster self-sufficiency. Mr. Chair, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the interconnectedness of global health systems and the necessity of robust healthcare infrastructure in Africa. Ghana therefore calls for collective action among international agencies, member states, and civil society to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure equitable access to internationally controlled essential medicines. I thank you for the opportunity.Ghana underscores the critical need to address inequitable access to internationally controlled essential medicines in Africa, framing it as a moral imperative tied to health equity, sustainable development, and human rights. Inequitable access to internationally controlled essential medicines like morphine and methadone are vital for pain management and public health, yet systemic barriers, outdated regulations, and global neglect hinder their availability in Africa. The disparity is stark, with opioid consumption 50 times higher in high-income countries than in low- and middle-income ones. Within Africa, francophone nations face greater challenges compared to anglophone counterparts due to weaker healthcare infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. Mr. Chair, key barriers include overly restrictive regulations shaped by international drug control conventions, colonial legacies that left African nations with underdeveloped health systems, cultural stigma around opioids, inadequate workforce training, and insufficient global support. Despite commitments to the right to health, high-income countries and global institutions have failed to provide adequate technical and financial assistance. Mr. Chair, Ghana proposes a multi-stakeholder approach to address these challenges. Inter-agency collaboration is vital to harmonize health and drug control policies while providing technical assistance to strengthen regulatory frameworks and supply chains. Member states, particularly high-income nations, must fulfil their moral and legal obligations by offering financial resources and expertise to build resilient pharmaceutical industries in Africa. South-South cooperation is also encouraged, leveraging advanced pharmaceutical sectors in countries like South Africa to support neighbouring nations. Mr. Chair, civil society organizations play a crucial role in combating stigma, advocating for policy reforms, educating communities, and holding governments accountable. Regional platforms like the African Union should be used to harmonize policies across countries and amplify Africa’s voice globally. 7. Ghana underlines the importance of decolonization and restorative justice, urging former colonial powers to invest in local production of inequitable access to internationally controlled essential medicines as part of reparatory justice. This would reduce dependency on imports, strengthen regional supply chains, and foster self-sufficiency. Mr. Chair, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the interconnectedness of global health systems and the necessity of robust healthcare infrastructure in Africa. Ghana therefore calls for collective action among international agencies, member states, and civil society to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure equitable access to internationally controlled essential medicines. I thank you for the opportunity.
India: The World Drug Report and many other publications demonstrate opioid use disorders are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Important to find safe treatment modalities. While there is evidence for methadone and buprenorphine for treatment, concerns about diversion and misuse limit wider availability. Long acting formulations of agonist medications appear promising in this regard. They are associated with minimal risk of diversion by nature. Raises question whether buprenorphine should be regulated in the same way as other preparations. Considering properties, it would be extremely useful to receive guidance from WHO and UNDOC on using these treatment modalities effectively and the regulation required. India initiates research study on use of long-acting depot-buprenorphine later this year. Encouraging member states to adopt and guidance from WHO and UNODC would be welcomed.
United Republic of Tanzania: We call on the UNODC to strengthen efforts on technical assistance to implement interventions on access to medicine. We further call upon UNODC to strengthen efforts for technical assistance to implement important interventions. We align with the three conventions and major policy documents of CND. These documents are crucial towards ensuring access to medicine for medical and scientific purposes. We have national control and enforcement policy, and a control and enforcement act to ensure we meet our responsibilities. We are addressing major barriers in the supply chain, raising awareness and capacity. Strengthening regulatory framework, capacity building of health professionals, and working to ensure availability. Emphasising collaboration with community, caregivers,´the media, and other stakeholders. Support establishment of diversion and prevention strategies and monitoring and evaluation programs. We advocate more operational research in non medical use of prescription pharmaceuticals that is related to supply chain issues. We need end to end supply chain data from demand forecasting, approval, consumption, and disposal of unused commodities. We need to enhance global systems. Emphasise cross border and regional data exchange and exchange between public and private sectors. We recognise the use of substances for medical and scientific purposes is indispensable and this should not be restricted so we need robust responses. Need to meet dual responsibility of provision and control of medicines through balanced approach
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland: We highlight our commitment to ensuring availability of controlled substances for medical and scientific purposes. Our framework is ensuring a balanced approach. The UK has good access to medicine and healthcare, but this brings the challenge of diversion. We need effective collaboration of government, enforcement agencies, healthcare, including in the education of professionals and the public, and providing support. Our regulator MHRA works closely with enforcement partners and healthcare professionals to combat diversion and theft. Strengthening partnerships, international data sharing, and increasing joint operations has led to rise in medicine seizures. Critical to disrupting trafficking and online threats. Regulatory reforms are key. Monitoring sale patterns, ensuring supply chain security, monitoring and reporting systems. Proportionate controls are in place to prevent abuse while maintaining access to integral substances. We remain committed to working with partners to strengthen cooperation and ensure diverse responses against diversion.
Burkina Faso: As a member of the INCB we respect the regulatory provisions about import, use and management of substances and we reaffirm commitment to implementation of the three control conventions. We have faced terrorist attacks for some years and they have caused not only the loss of human life, but also the physical and mental trauma leading to increase in use of substances and requires rigorous monitoring of the supply chain, especially in areas with limited access. With the Ministry of Health and central procurement platform for medicine, this is the only platform allowed to import medicine. Services of MoH are planning and implementing activities for health training and authorisation to improve availability of medicine and rational use. We can then verify that procedures are being respected. We have a guidebook drawn up in 2010 and updated in 2023 which aims to guarantee availability of substances for medical and scientific purposes while avoiding diversion. We call on stakeholders involved in supply chain for capacity building to improve services and avoid diversion.
Thailand: We reaffirm our obligations under the conventions. We need regulation of controlled substances throughout the supply chain. We need to share monitoring of new and emerging psychoactive substances and we are committed to accelerating the identification of substances to ensure national registration keeps pace with evolving situations. Collaboration with UN agencies to gather data on emerging substances. This is effective legislation and control. We have detected new psychoactive substances that are not yet covered by conventions, but have been causing issues domestically. We place importance on balancing access with oversight to prevent misuse. The Ministry of Health ensures availability for medical purposes and is fully committed to ensure patients have access to medication. We are facing a shortage of methylphenidate for ADHD treatment and other medication shortages. We are having issues with overseas manufacturers. We are pursuing policy for domestic research and development to encourage local manufacturing and ensure essential medication is available for patients and contributing to overall security of pharmaceutical supply. This will improve management of emergency drug supply in the country to ensure access in crisis situations. Committed to robust information exchange and enhanced collaboration to prevent illicit use. Prepared to cooperate to implement the conventions for optimal outcomes for patients in need of treatment and preventing spread.
Colombia: We have a consolidated system for control of substances for trade to guarantee use of medicine in medical sections but preventing diversion. Digital platform and access to databases have strengthened supervision and traceability. In order to address the challenges we must increase international cooperation. Progress towards standardization and strengthening interoperability of info systems. Through coordination and good practices we can optimise mechanisms of control and ensure transparency to control substances.
Australia: Indispensability of controlled medical substances is universally recognized and in the Sustainable Development Goals. It is a key factor to ensure the highest attainable standard to ensure affordable safe and controlled medicines. State parties must have a balanced approach to ensure access for medical and scientific purposes. 87% of the global population is living in a state where availability of pharmaceutical opioids for medical use was below average, especially at a time where we can enable safe and effective access. We have a long standing commitment for ensuring availability and we recognize urgent need for action in the Global South, particularly South East Asia and the Asia Pacific. We continue to support UNODC, WHO, and Union for International Cancer Control to ensure access and prevent diversion with projects in Timor Leste and Indonesia, following a successful pilot in Ghana. We are sponsoring side events on access for medical purposes to enhance children’s quality of care, and giving voice to silent suffering to ensure availability of controlled substances for medical and scientific purposes. Situation complex and we will continue to provide leadership and support to ensure no patient is left behind. We urge Member States, NGOs, civil society and community to scale up action and ensure access in all agendas.
International Network of People who Use Drugs (INPUD):Thank you, Chair. I want to start my intervention by saying, ‘We are in crisis!’ Let me repeat this again: ‘We are in crisis!’ We have been coming to this meeting as if everything was okay – we are not! Have we been ignoring the elephant in the room? Harm reduction clinics have been closed down; people have been denied services due to the severe funding cuts we are experiencing. The International Network of People who Use Drugs conducted a rapid assessment to understand the impact of the current financial crisis on the lives and well-being of people who use drugs, including lifesaving services globally. Some key preliminary survey findings show that of the 76 responses received over the course of five days, approximately 77%, of which 67% were community-led, noted severe disruption to programmes for people who use drugs, including the provision and availability of Opioid Agonist Treatment. In Africa, 10 countries reported no access to either Methadone and/or Buprenorphine. Similar reports also came from 3 countries in Asia, two in Western Europe, one in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and one in the Middle East and Central Asia. The loss of harm reduction services, particularly Opioid Agonist Treatment, is leading to increased health risks and will have a direct human impact – I am talking about a return to raging HIV, hepatitis C, and overdose epidemics among people who use drugs globally. So we can forget about achieving the 2030 targets on ending AIDS, including the SDG targets. In the last couple of days, we have been talking about saving lives – but in fact, we are killing lives – the lives of people who are often neglected, left-behind, and forgotten – people who use drugs. I will close my statement by reminding everyone to not forget the impact towards OAT services in Crimea annexation in 2014 kill almost 100 people who use drugs due to the OAT service disruption. My name is Anton Basenko, I am a proud drug user from Ukraine. Viva la Ukraine.
Physicians for Responsible Opioid Prescribing Inc: There is a problem with the phrase that we need to balance access to medicines and prevent diversion and abuse. It assumes access is routinely beneficial and harms are limited to abuse and diversion. Increasing access to prescription opioids can also be harmful. Patients taking exactly as prescribed has also increased, including in Brazil, netherlands… Opioid dependence increased in parallel with the rise in consumption. In the US, increased access to analgesics resulted in a public health catastrophe. Efforts by UNODC to increase access are well intentioned, pain relief should be available. Opioids are not the only analgesics that can relieve pain. We have serious concerns that UNODC’s hard work on this issue is failing to consider lessons learned from opioid access and that seems to be based on disinformation disseminated by opioid manufacturers. Opioid phobia is good. (sic)Unless a patient is at the end of life, fear of opioid use is relevant. Opioids are highly addictive. UNODC can thread this needle. But these efforts are likely to cause further problems.
Niger: The proliferation of falsified medicines and low quality medicines and trafficking in illicit substances and the development of transnational organized crime has consequences for state development. Capacity building of law enforcement bodies is important. We reiterate our commitment to our undertakings and we call for solidarity amongst states and stronger action.
International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care: The drug control treaties call essential medicines indispensable for relief of suffering. When conventions focus on control, they make these medicines inaccessible and unaffordable. Some member states are improving through collaborations with professional organizations. Evidence shows improved availability results from strengthened governance of industry interests. Well managed supply chains. These efforts are urgent given the global funding crisis that will drive the need for palliative care sky high. Morphine included – makes responsible bulk order and makes it available. Malawi allowed family physicians and nurses with training to prescribe in emergencies. Malawi monitors the supply chain. Only 15% of the world’s population has access, where harm reduction is a primary health care service. Governments of countries with adequate consumption and pharmaceutical industries should address their responsibilities. Please call on us.
5 (e): Other matters arising from the international drug control treaties
Dr. Justice Tettey: Drug markets continue to witness a proliferation of substances and precursor chemicals. 1,300 new psychoactive substances have been reported to the UNODC Early Warning System by 150 countries. We must detect criminals bypassing existing controls, along with an increase in sophistication of clandestine labs. We must detect this threat early and increase capacity to prevent threats, while protecting human health and welfare. Progress made with development of national early warning systems to identify substances and increasing preparedness to evolving threats. We have placed 83 of the most harmful, prevalent substances under control. This is thanks to evidence you have provided. In addition, 28 precursor chemicals have been placed under control since 2014 and we know there will be no synthetics without precursors. We must ensure Member States can implement scheduling decisions. We are supporting 95 countries with testing and drug analysis to determine the structure of unknown substances. We have developed guidelines on clandestine manufacture and destruction of clandestine labs. At this CND a resolution is being considered to provide enhanced support and training for safety of law enforcement officers, specifically those involved in destruction of synthetic opioids. More than 1,000 tonnes of drugs and chemicals were destroyed in recent years. Developing specific courses to meet evolving needs. Supporting governments to find common solutions and championing legislation. National network of legislation on drugs launched in 2024. Today, it is leading us to understand the greatest challenge of the 21st century – synthetic drugs. Our synthetic drug strategy offers a framework grounded in science through early warning systems, and strengthening capacity. We continue to leverage expertise of us and other UN agencies to support countries to effectively respond. Support is also provided through our toolkit on synthetic drugs and tools from UN agencies. This is relied on by over 340,000 active users around the world. I invite you to continue to contribute and benefit from these resources and we look forward to continuing to work to combat the world drug problem.
Guatemala: Proliferation of new psychoactive substances and precursors is incontestable, and demand is insatiable. The world drug problem is a complex challenge linked to crime, with death from overdoses exacerbated by violence of trafficking networks and transnational organised crime. Despite decades of interventions these traditional policies have not been effective and have even worsened collateral damage. My country seized 18,218 kg of coke last year. Increase of 3.5x previous year and when we listen to other states we see how much is seized. Compared to the past supply and demand continue to increase. We have inter institutional coordination to implement operations by land, air and sea. We even destroy clandestine landing strips which are crimes against the environment. We are trying to address this challenge to deal with this better together. This is not just my country but the international community protecting public health using comprehensive strategies tackling supply and demand. The world drug problem needs to take account of this phrase common and shared responsibility. Recent reports show a trend of increase in conditions caused by drug consumption and increase in deaths from overdose. Despite efforts the World Drug Report says consumers and the impact of consumption have increased exponentially. Appearance of synthetic opioids such as nitazenes and fentanyl derivatives have contributed to overdoses and developed into a huge problem and concern for public health. National measures have led to illicit markets operating clandestinely and contributed to violence. A number of anti trafficking measures reveal an excessively punitive approach that hands power to criminal gangs, contributes to violence, social and economic costs, loss of life, distortion, and other crime. We need introspection about our actions – it is unsustainable to implement orthodox measures which are ineffective. Trafficking and transnational organised crime is obvious in countries with weak security. This contributes to domestic conflict and destabilizing communities leading to a circle of violence. We need a critical rethink of current policies – not a question of undermining or underestimating but must acknowledge urgent need for humane approach and overcome purely punitive vision, to instead prioritize health and dignity. We require radical transformation with innovative and balanced strategies with a comprehensive and evidence based approach to offset crime and tragic loss of life.
Algeria: Drugs and psychotropic substances is one of the challenges threatening society and destabilizing. This is a trans border issue calling for a comprehensive and multidimensional response. We stand ready to prevent and respond to this scourge. We are part of international and regional initiatives and we are keen to provide health services to all categories of population. We give users the opportunity to seek treatment and a number of measures that contribute to prevention of scourge of drug use. We stand ready to adopt an integrated care approach to drug use cases taking into account treatment rehab and social reintegration. We are providing drug users with treatment with a pivotal role in providing basic services. We have established 48 centres for treatment and 5 detox centres providing mental health and other social services – the number of people receiving treatment 32,000 people. Either as outpatients, through voluntary hospitalisation, or court rulings. Treatment with methadone is currently applied based on scientific evidence. Parity and access to equitable services to all categories including prisoners without distinction or discrimination. Methadone is used in a number of corrective institutions to ensure follow up and healthcare to prisoners and we would like to invite you to a side event on this topic. We call for enhancing exchange and experience towards development of more effective strategies to intensify security and cooperation addressing trafficking networks and investing in treatment and rehab programs.
Trinidad and Tobago: We remain committed to the three international drug control conventions and related frameworks. Our legislative reforms include regulating medical cannabis and updating our national drug policy to enhance international cooperation, prevention, border security, law enforcement, and intelligence sharing both regionally and internationally.In the area of public health, we have increased access to services and continue to engage in regional initiatives. Future priorities: Despite our progress, challenges remain, particularly regarding the rise of synthetic drugs and organized crime. Even with increased financial resources, we require stronger technical assistance, greater cooperation, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building. Balancing enforcement with prevention and treatment remains critical. We reaffirm our commitment to global drug control efforts and our shared goals. Let us continue to pursue evidence-based policies to protect public health.
Turkish Green Crescent Society: Our initiatives are grounded in scientific research. One of our primary concerns is cannabis policy, particularly its compliance with UN conventions, which has been subject to debate both nationally and internationally. The 2023 rescheduling decision was also met with misinterpretations. Given the critical role of NGOs in monitoring and related efforts, the inclusion of civil society is essential. Cannabis remains the most widely used drug globally, and synthetic and semi-synthetic substances pose new threats, including the normalization of cannabis use—especially through edibles marketed in ways that appeal to minors. Cannabis has a high potential for dependence and often serves as a gateway to more potent substances. Regulatory frameworks for production and use must be carefully structured and regularly monitored. Public education is necessary to ensure accurate perceptions and safeguard public health. Key UN organizations play a vital role in integrating scientific understanding into policymaking. Legalization has not resolved public health concerns, making a globally coordinated and harmonized approach essential.
Dejustica: I present this intervention on behalf of the Fundación Ideas para la Paz, Elementa, Acción Técnica Social, and Dejusticia. We are a group of civil society organizations working in Latin America to promote human rights in drug policy implementation and advocate for a path toward regulation based on social justice.bYear after year, we are disappointed by the inertia of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs and the enormous difficulty in fostering evidence-based debates that acknowledge the harmful effects of the current prohibitionist system on health, the environment, peacebuilding, and democracy itself. We need debates where we can openly admit that prohibition is infringing upon fundamental rights such as life, freedom, and personal autonomy—and where we can agree on the urgent necessity for this United Nations system to uphold the human rights principles that bind us together. We are also frustrated by this system’s immense resistance to renewal and its failure to respond to today’s realities, which demand that we do things differently if we want different results. This outright refusal to engage in the necessary debate not only hinders change but also risks rendering the Commission obsolete. Year after year, we also witness the courage of a handful of countries that call for change, despite the Commission’s reluctance. These reformist voices, which were particularly strong at CND67, emphasized that “we need a transformation in our vision of global drug policy, based on a realistic assessment, evidence, and a pragmatic response.” They also called for a comprehensive review of the international drug control system to enhance its effective implementation—a request that is now being addressed. This effort aims to establish a multidisciplinary panel of experts to provide recommendations on the implementation of international drug policy commitments within the current system. It is encouraging to see this request being debated, and we hope that by the end of this week, we will be celebrating the news of the panel’s establishment. The proposal on the table is one of the last opportunities for this system to remain relevant to many countries. Otherwise, we will fail to find solutions to the numerous human rights challenges associated with prohibition. In this moment of crisis, we ask the following:
- Broad support for the request to establish the panel, ensuring that it is composed of independent experts with a wide-ranging perspective that considers regional diversity, indigenous representation, and human rights.
- Recognition of this Commission’s responsibility to implement last year’s historic resolution, which includes harm reduction as an integral part of the response to drug use.
Colombia will host the International Harm Reduction Conference next April, and we hope it will serve as a moment to solidify institutional and financial support for these essential services.
Harm Reduction International: This CND’s discussions come at an exceptional time; when fragile progress is being undone with painfully real consequences on the lives of thousands. Last year’s high-level declaration reiterated a commitment by all Member States to “respecting, protecting and promoting all human rights […] in the development and implementation of drug policies”. A year later, we seem further away from achieving this goal. Harm reduction has been endorsed by the entire UN system – including this forum – as critical to
promoting the right to health. Still, major challenges remain. By the end of 2024, harm reduction was endorsed by the national policies of 108 countries in diverse social, political and cultural contexts, and HRI
recorded a slight increase in availability of services. At the same time, significant regional differences and gaps in quality persist, while stigma, discrimination and criminalisation act as almost insurmountable barriers to access to services particularly for women, people belonging to racial and ethnic minorities, and other marginalised groups. The situation is even more severe in prisons, where people who use drugs are overrepresented due to criminalisation but services are almost non-existent, and when available underfunded or difficult to access. International donor funding is critical for harm reduction in low- and middle-income countries, so the loss of US funding, and threatened cuts to other budgets, risks triggering the most profound crisis of harm reduction ever: lifesaving services have been shut overnight, and lives have already been lost to overdose. Unless the cuts are reversed and donors and governments step up with alternative funding, hard fought gains in HIV and HCV prevention will be lost. The human and economic cost will be unbearable.
Finally, human rights centred drug policies require urgent abolition of the death penalty for drug offences, which as we know contravenes both human rights and drug control standards. Regrettably, HRI’s new Global Overview reports a record 615 drug-related executions in 2024; with hundreds more executions unreported. Most concerningly, almost one in two people executed in 2024 was convicted of a drug offence.n In other words, punitive drug policies are THE key driver of the use of capital punishment and a significant
barrier to global abolition. The international community has the opportunity and the responsibility to effect change, and this very forum could and should play a leading role. Regrettably, Vienna remains silent, sending a dangerous message to retentionist countries that executions and other extreme rights violations in the name of drug control can continue with impunity. These developments are one more clear indication that a comprehensive review of the international drug control framework is urgently needed; with a view to promoting an inevitable paradigm shift towards drug policies that truly promote health and human rights for all. These can be achieved by placing people who use drugs at the centre, by divesting from extreme and ineffective policies such as the death penalty and incarceration, and by investing in harm reduction and other social justice interventions. We have the tools, the resources, and the evidence to make this happen – we just need your political will. Thank you.
Item 6: Follow-up to the implementation at the national, regional and international levels of all commitments, as reflected in the Ministerial Declaration of 2019, to address and counter the world drug problem.
Chair: The Youth Forum and others are still meeting and will report to us this afternoon. Let’s now move to comments from the chair. As you’ll be aware in the Mid Term Review of the 2019 Ministerial Declaration. Member States reaffirm their commitment to the Ministerial Declaration and acknowledge commitment therein for scientific, evidence based and balanced approaches to addressing all aspects of the world drug problem to foster broad, transparent and inclusive discussions. We have a work plan on thematic discussions to be held in the lead up to the review in 2029. An updated format was introduced to foster more dynamic and inclusive exchanges.
…
A conference room paper containing chair summary of thematic discussions, held in Nov 2024, has been prepared contained in CRP 1 and note on CND follow up on implementation in CRP 3. Owing to financial constraints of regular budget the report of the Secretariat regard to drug trafficking which was to include recommendations could not be prepared. I would now give the floor to the Secretariat of the Governing Bodies.
Secretariat: Effective implementation is central. Thematic discussions evolved from UNGASS and we just heard from the chair about last year’s discussions. These provide a structured forum for discussion and to guide our efforts. 2024 High-Level Declaration reaffirms commitment to broad and transparent discussions. Includes other substantive matters for MS to raise issues. In 2025, the CND will discuss ch… The liquidity crisis led to postponement of 2024 meetings with subsidiary bodies. Moving forward, we need to ensure subsidiary bodies can provide much needed input to the work of the CND. E-learning tools to facilitate awareness raising. CND website provides modules, including on implementation. Introduction to scheduling course provides guidance on scheduling. Through social media, we aim to address complex topics CND is dealing with in an accessible way to a global audience. CND participates in global awareness days and organizes special events, including on World Drug Day. ECOSOC, Orange the World – highlighting work of CND across broader UN. Pledge4Action was a flagship initiative of 67th session and we look forward to hearing progress. Pledges and progress updates are publicly available on the website.
UNODC Chief Laboratory and Scientific Services: Illicit markets and their effects on people have persisted and evolved since 2019. Made progress, but several challenges remain and we must remain committed jointly. Efforts in one region can be severely undermined by another region. This is exploited by those who profit from the illicit drug trade. There is a pressing need for enhanced and coordinated international efforts to effectively respond to complexities we face. Founded on science and informed by data and research, UNODC continues to translate learnings to policy recommendations. Supports governments with guidance and technical assistance that meets international standards. Examples: Drug use prevention is pivotal. Supporting CHAMPs to amplify resilience of children, investing in children to foster healthy future generations. For people who use drugs and with drug use disorders, UNODC is supporting continuity of care, including harm reduction. Needle and Syringe Program and methadone programs to address HIV and Hep C among people who use drugs and people in prison settings. We continue to support an effective criminal justice response. Enabling alternatives to conviction in appropriate cases is an approach that has been effectively implemented in many parts of the world. UNODC supports countries in identifying future drug threats through early warning advisory. As part of the synthetic drugs strategy, the laboratory launched an online platform to support efforts against clandestine laboratories. We need to strengthen the ability to freeze and recover profits from crime. Guiding principles on Alternative Development, UNODC will be a partner in providing alternative sustainable livelihoods. We need to invest in translating science into effective solutions in line with legal obligations and political commitments. We need to invest in partnerships that have been proven to be effective. We need to work together.
European Union (on behalf of European Union): The following countries also align with this statement: Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey and Ukraine. Commitments of 2016 and 2019 remain essential. We welcome thematic discussion in line with the workplan and possibility to address other substantive matters. We recognize progress made but also remaining challenges. We recall the 2024 High Level Declaration where we affirm we need further and decisive action, including innovative measures to address drug related challenges. Pledge4Action represents an important step for impactful action. EU reiterates support and encourages Member States to implement. For its part, EU continues to increase capacity to react to future c challenges by strengthening capabilities of EU Drugs Agency, including a drug alert system, complementary to the existing early warning system. EU Drug strategy 2020-2025 continues to serve as a guiding framework for the work. Reducing drug supply and demand and addressing harm. International cooperation, research and foresight. These ensure drug policies are inclusive and respect inherent dignity. World Drug Report highlights diversification of markets, synthetic opioids and cathinones and lack of access to services for vulnerable people, including women and young people. The EU is implementing a human rights based approach, ensuring meaningful involvement of civil society experts and affected communities. The EU calls for enhanced cooperation, strengthened forensics and enhanced data collection. Robust capacity building to support Member States. On synthetics, the EU have actively taken part in The Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats and remains committed to pledges based on findings of the coalition. Dismantling laboratories, therefore Poland tabled an EU resolution. Development oriented approaches including alternative development are crucial to address socioeconomic causes of use and trafficking. Environmental impact with France tabling resolution on behalf of EU. Recognizing the importance of mitigating harm and prosecuting environmental crimes.
Singapore: In relation to the global drug situation Singapore remains steadfast in commitments of Ministerial Declaration 2019 and High Level Segment 2024. And fulfilling international policy commitments by 2029. We adopt a comprehensive and balanced approach backed by science and evidence. A key pillar among this is prevention education for youth and the public, based on evidence, in school, social media, media, and pub events. In 2024 all schools participated in at least one program. 95% of students agreed taking drugs is harmful to their health and understand the consequences. We use data and evidence to guide rehabilitation and risk, need and responsivity models. As CND members we are committed to supporting CND in policy discourse and sharing expertise. At the recent internsessional we shared our prevention approach and strategy in new psychoactive substance identification. We have sponsored a chapter in the 2025 World Drug Report examining impact and adverse physical and mental consequences. We hope this will aid collective efforts. Addressing the world drug problem requires a comprehensive, balanced approach with ambitious targets aimed at the root cause. Reaffirm the 2019 Ministerial Declaration and strive to remain a valuable partner. Together we can create a safe, drug free society.
Kenya: We appreciate the efforts of the CND Secretariat for continued and coordinated follow up to commitments in the 2019 Ministerial Declaration. From last year’s mid term review it is evident there are accelerated efforts to counter the world drug problem. Many lessons learned and the #Pledge4Action Initiative is a major success to push for action. In line with the Ministerial Declaration that encourages governments to focus on people and ensure nobody is left behind. We are committed to a balanced supply and demand reduction strategy aimed at reducing impact on public health. Intensified effort for advocacy, treatment, rehab, prevention, and reducing crime. Seen deeper understanding of complexities of addiction and uptick in service intake. Increased community engagement and work with law enforcement. Many more professionals are seeking knowledge in the addiction field. We are cognisant of underlying challenges – globally we are confronted by new and ever evolving trends for illicit drug related activities. ICT platforms provide a marketplace and movement of funds conducted anonymously. Shift to synthetic drugs manufactured anywhere by anyone. Fashionable combinations of substances are a game changer, challenging interventions. These trends are a catalyst to a paradigm shift countering the world drug problem. We must harness law enforcement to current realities and tailor interventions to be alive to the impact these combinations have on health and wellbeing. Innovation in demand and supply reduction with enhanced capacity and expertise in – Development of age and gender appropriate programmes, monitoring platforms to curb misuse, national forensics to identify and handle new psychoactive substances, health responses to meet needs of the affected, control of precursor chemicals and profiling of drug related cases. We reiterate commitment to the Ministerial Declaration and ensure conformity to the three major control conventions. We register our gratitude to UNODC to ensure follow up and provide support to Member States. We appreciate setting aside agenda in all regular sessions of the commission enhancing our efforts to counter the world drug problem. In 2029, when we review progress towards our commitments, we hope we will have attained significant results.
Japan: Please allow me to inform you of a change of our side event. Today’s event celebrating 30 anniversary of peace bell-
Chair: This is not a place for making announcements we have closed the meeting.