Drug Policy Commitments

The United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), through Resolution 68/6, established an Expert Panel to strengthen the implementation of the international drug control conventions and related international drug policy commitments. As part of this process, EURAD submitted a written contribution outlining its recommendations for strengthening evidence-based, health-oriented drug policy.

In our response, EURAD highlighted that drug policy should focus on effective implementation of existing international commitments rather than creating new frameworks. We believe the greatest opportunities lie in strengthening prevention, expanding access to treatment, supporting recovery, and ensuring that policies are guided by evidence and public health objectives.

Prevention should be the cornerstone of drug policy. Greater investment is needed in evidence-based prevention programmes that help children, young people, and other vulnerable groups build resilience and reduce risk factors. Strong families, quality education, social inclusion, and opportunities for personal development all play an important role in preventing substance use and related harms.

A major concern is the global treatment gap. Many people with drug use disorders still lack access to quality treatment and long-term recovery support. We call for wider availability of evidence-based treatment services, alongside recovery-oriented approaches that address housing, employment, mental health, and social reintegration. We support evidence-based harm reduction measures, including initiatives that prevent overdose and the spread of infectious diseases.

However, harm reduction should be part of a balanced approach that also prioritises prevention, treatment, and recovery. We are also concerned about the normalisation and commercialisation of non-medical drug use. Commercial interests may encourage higher levels of consumption and increase public health risks.

Drug policy reforms should therefore be carefully evaluated, with health and wellbeing remaining the primary objective. Ultimately, success should be measured by reduced drug-related harm, improved access to support and recovery, and stronger protection of the health and welfare of individuals, families, and communities.