Â鶹APP

A staff member of the Liberia National Police Anti-Drug Squad
A staff member of the Liberia National Police Anti-Drug Squad reviews the municipal dump outside Monrovia, Liberia, where they are burning nearly 400 kg of marijuana and other drugs that were confiscated between 2011 and 2012.
Photo:UN Photo/Staton Winter

By of 7 December 1987, the General Assembly decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse.

Supported each year by individuals, communities, and various organizations all over the world, this global observance aims to raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represent to society.

World drug problem: persisting issues, new challenges, innovative responses

Global drug use and the number of drugs on the market have been increasing in the past decades. The century-long dominance of heroin in illicit global opioid markets is increasingly being challenged by changes in the illegal supply of opioids. Production, seizures and use of cocaine continue to rise, while low costs of manufacture and reduced risks of detection of synthetic drugs are contributing to their increase on illicit drug markets.

Drug trafficking groups are seeking out technological innovation to target new audiences and ensure that drugs increasingly reach their users and help boost their billion-dollar businesses.

Illicit drug markets have always been adapting, and organized crime has always been looking to exploit gaps in governance and regulation.

In response to these challenges, this year¡¯s campaign will showcase how the international community, local and national governments, civil society and the public is working together on innovative responses to reduce demand for and supply of illicit drugs and thus mitigate threats.

#WorldDrugDay

World Drug Report

Every year, UNODC issues the , full of key statistics and factual data obtained through official sources, a science-based approach and research. UNODC continues to provide facts and practical solutions to address the current world drug problem and remains committed to attaining health for all. Health and justice sectors are under pressure and access to services and support is obstructed when we can least afford it.

Why Is Cocaine Trafficking Surging?

For two decades, the (UNODC) has been helping make the world safer from drugs, organized crime, corruption and terrorism. We are committed to achieving health, security and justice for all by tackling these threats and promoting peace and sustainable well-being as deterrents to them.

 

Woman making NO or STOP gesture with hand

Illegal drugs are the source of immense human suffering. Those most vulnerable, especially young people, bear the brunt of this crisis. People who use drugs and those struggling with addiction face a multitude of challenges: the harmful effects of the drugs themselves, the stigma and discrimination they endure, and often, harsh and ineffective responses to their situation.

 

an abstract illustration of people engaged in an event

International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. The existence of international days predates the establishment of the Â鶹APP, but the UN has embraced them as a powerful advocacy tool. We also mark other UN observances.