Drug dependency needs treatment not criminalisation, says UN drugs and crime agency
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On 26 June 2010, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) will be holding numerous events across the world to celebrate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The World Drug Campaign led by UNODC is aimed at raising awareness about the major challenge that illicit drugs represent to society as a whole, and especially to the young.
The clear message from the international community is that drug dependency needs to be viewed primarily as a health problem.
Branding drug users as criminals is not an effective way of dealing with illicit drugs. Instead, treatment, care and rehabilitation programmes should be made accessible. Investing in prevention and treatment through mainstream health and social welfare systems improves security and contributes to development.
PRI very much welcomes this change of emphasis which is mirrored by the Madrid Recommendation on Health and Prison. Implementation continues to be part of PRI's programmes around the world.