Qatar emphasizes the need for international adherence to drug control conventions to combat global drug challenges effectively. At the 68th Commission on Narcotic Drugs session, Qatar’s Ambassador highlighted alarming trends in drug production and use, as shown in the UNODC’s 2024 report. He called for international support, particularly for Afghanistan and Syria, while reaffirming Qatar’s commitment to a comprehensive strategy against drugs.
The State of Qatar has underscored the urgency of implementing commitments under the three international drug control conventions in combating global drug-related challenges. This statement was made by His Excellency Mr. Jassim Yaqoub Al-Hammadi, Qatar’s Ambassador to the United Nations, during the 68th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs in Vienna. He pointed out that international efforts remain insufficient in countering illicit drug production and trafficking.
Ambassador Al-Hammadi highlighted the concerning findings of the 2024 World Drug Report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, which indicates record levels of cocaine production, increased drug use among adolescents, and a wider variety of drugs. Furthermore, there is a growing number of jurisdictions legalizing recreational cannabis use, signaling a considerable distance from the goal of a drug-free world.
Despite these alarming trends, there are signs of progress, particularly a decline in opium production in Afghanistan and actions by the Syrian government against captagon production. He emphasized the need for international cooperation to assist Afghanistan and Syria, particularly through alternative development programs for Afghan farmers.
The State of Qatar also expressed its agreement with the World Drug Report’s findings, stressing the importance of addressing the root causes of illicit drug cultivation, including poverty and lack of development. It reaffirmed the Commission on Narcotic Drugs as the primary policymaking body in drug control and the UNODC’s crucial role in tackling global drug issues.
Qatar further called for increased support for UNODC to enhance technical assistance and capacity-building for Member States in addressing drug-related challenges and highlighted the funding difficulties currently hampering UNODC’s operations. The State of Qatar detailed its actions to meet commitments under the drug control conventions and provided continuous support to bolster the UNODC’s initiatives.
On a national front, Ambassador Al-Hammadi expressed pride in Qatar’s achievements in protecting its populace from drug-related issues through the National Drug Control Strategy, emphasizing integrated preventive measures focusing on education and awareness to combat drug addiction, particularly among youth.
In conclusion, the State of Qatar has highlighted the pressing need for international collaboration in combating the drug crisis through adherence to existing conventions. Although serious challenges persist, Qatar’s initiatives and support for international agencies like the UNODC demonstrate a commitment to addressing both the symptoms and root causes of drug-related problems. Enhancing capacity-building and educational measures remains crucial in safeguarding future generations from the dangers of drug addiction.
Original Source: www.gulf-times.com
