Qatar’s ambassador to the UN urged for the implementation of international drug control conventions to counter rising drug production and consumption. The 2024 World Drug Report indicates alarming trends in drug use, particularly among youth. Despite positive developments in some regions, Qatar advocates for global cooperation and support for technical efforts by the UNODC to combat drug-related challenges effectively.
The State of Qatar has highlighted the urgency of addressing global drug production and consumption through stringent adherence to international drug control conventions. This was articulated by His Excellency Mr. Jassim Yaqoub Al-Hammadi, Qatar’s Ambassador to the United Nations and International Organizations in Vienna, during the 68th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs.
Ambassador Al-Hammadi underscored the inadequacy of current international efforts to combat illicit drug trade, noting a notable increase in cocaine production and drug use among youth as reported in the 2024 World Drug Report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). He expressed concern over the expanding selection of drugs available globally and the growing number of regions permitting recreational cannabis use.
Despite the concerning trends, Ambassador Al-Hammadi pointed out some positive developments, including a significant reduction in opium production in Afghanistan and concerted efforts by the Syrian government to eliminate captagon use. He called for international collaboration to support alternative development initiatives for Afghan farmers and to aid Syria’s efforts against drug production.
Qatar endorsed the findings of the 2024 World Drug Report, which emphasizes that combating drug economies necessitates addressing root causes such as poverty and lack of development that push young people into drug dependency. The State of Qatar reaffirmed the importance of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs as the UN’s key policymaking body to address the global drug issue.
Furthermore, Qatar stressed the need for sufficient support to the UNODC, to enable it to offer essential technical assistance and resource-building to member states combatting drug-related challenges. Ambassador Al-Hammadi expressed concern over UNODC’s financial constraints, which have led to postponements in critical meetings and hindered timely reports on global drug trafficking.
His Excellency detailed Qatar’s initiatives to uphold its commitments to drug control, emphasizing continued support for UNODC’s technical assistance programs and its dedication to the Commission on Narcotic Drugs. Qatar actively participates in the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drugs Threats, showcasing its commitment to global drug control efforts.
Concluding his statement, Ambassador Al-Hammadi highlighted Qatar’s national strategies aimed at drug prevention and control. The National Drug Control Strategy emphasizes a cohesive framework with prioritization on preventive education to protect youth and society from drug abuse.
In summary, Qatar has issued a clarion call for enhanced global cooperation in tackling the rising challenges of drug production and consumption. Through international conventions and support for UNODC, Qatar aims to foster sustainable solutions addressing the root causes of drug-related issues. By enhancing technical assistance and promoting awareness, Qatar is committed to achieving a drug-free society and protecting future generations.
Original Source: www.gulf-times.com
