Qatar has called for the implementation of international drug control conventions to address global drug challenges. Ambassador Al-Hammadi emphasized the insufficient international efforts against drug abuse and trafficking, citing the UNODC’s alarming 2024 World Drug Report. Qatar also announced measures to support affected countries and its commitment to providing educational programs on drug prevention.
The State of Qatar has recognized the escalating global drug-related crises and underscored that tackling these issues necessitates adherence to the three international drug control conventions, ministerial declarations, and support for the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND). His Excellency Mr. Jassim Yaqoub Al-Hammadi, Qatar’s Ambassador to the United Nations and International Organizations in Vienna, articulated these points at the 68th session of the CND in Vienna.
Ambassador Al-Hammadi indicated that collaborative international efforts remain insufficient to combat illicit drug production and trafficking. The recently released 2024 World Drug Report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reveals alarming trends; cocaine production has soared, drug utilization, particularly among youth, has risen, and the variety of drugs available continues to diversify. Furthermore, there has been an increase in jurisdictions permitting recreational cannabis use, highlighting a significant challenge in achieving a drug-free world.
Despite these concerning developments, there are positive indicators, including a notable decrease in opium production in Afghanistan and the Syrian government’s initiatives to eliminate captagon laboratories. Ambassador Al-Hammadi urged the international community to provide robust support to Afghanistan and Syria, particularly for farmers transitioning to alternative livelihoods away from drug cultivation.
The State of Qatar endorsed the findings from the 2024 World Drug Report, which emphasizes that dismantling illegal drug economies requires addressing foundational issues such as poverty and lack of development. These root causes often trap children and youth into drug dependency.
Qatar reaffirmed the significance of the CND as the UN’s primary body for policy-making in drug control and highlighted the UNODC’s crucial role in addressing the drug dilemma, alongside the International Narcotics Control Board and the World Health Organization, in line with the conventions. The call for enhanced support for the UNODC aims to bolster technical assistance and capacity-building efforts, specifically addressing the financial challenges the agency faces.
Ambassador Al-Hammadi detailed Qatar’s ongoing commitments to the drug control conventions and its proactive contributions to the UNODC. Additionally, he emphasized Qatar’s involvement in the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drugs Threats as part of its strategy against illicit drug trafficking.
Lastly, the State of Qatar prides itself on its comprehensive National Drug Control Strategy, which incorporates preventative measures, education, and awareness initiatives to protect its citizens, especially the youth, from the dangers of drug abuse.
In summary, Qatar’s commitment to combating global drug issues is evident through its calls for international cooperation and support for significant drug control frameworks. The nation acknowledges the critical role it plays in supporting various agencies and initiatives aimed at reducing drug production and consumption while also demonstrating its effectiveness through domestic strategies. Continued collaboration and addressing root causes are essential for a sustainable solution to these pressing challenges.
Original Source: www.gulf-times.com
