Qatar Advocates for International Action Against the Global Drug Crisis
Qatar emphasizes the need for international cooperation to combat rising drug production and consumption globally. Ambassador Al-Hammadi highlighted challenges and positive indicators in the drug landscape at the CND meeting. Qatar advocates for the UNODC’s enhanced support while reiterating its commitment to drug control strategies and national protective measures.
The State of Qatar has underscored the pressing global challenge of drug production and consumption, asserting that effective solutions can only be reached through adherence to the three international drug control conventions and collaboration with the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND). This was articulated by His Excellency Mr. Jassim Yaqoub Al-Hammadi, Qatar’s Ambassador to the United Nations, during the 68th CND session in Vienna.
Ambassador Al-Hammadi remarked on the inadequacy of international efforts in tackling drug production and trafficking, referencing the dire findings of the 2024 World Drug Report. This report indicated surging cocaine production rates, a rise in drug use among young individuals, and an increase in jurisdictions permitting cannabis use. He emphasized that the dream of a drug-free world remains unattainable as these challenges mount.
Despite these challenges, there are encouraging developments, such as a notable decline in opium production in Afghanistan and Syrian initiatives to dismantle captagon laboratories. Ambassador Al-Hammadi advocated for collective international efforts to assist Afghanistan and Syria, particularly through alternative development programs aimed at supporting farmers and curtailing drug cultivation.
Qatar’s support for the 2024 World Drug Report was reaffirmed, highlighting that dismantling drug economies necessitates addressing underlying issues like poverty and lack of development that lead to youth becoming involved with drugs. Qatar reiterated the vital role of the CND and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in tackling the global drug dilemma.
Furthermore, the State of Qatar called for enhanced support to the UNODC for technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives for Member States to effectively tackle drug-related challenges. Stressing the importance of addressing current financial challenges faced by the UNODC, Ambassador Al-Hammadi noted these difficulties impact the preparation of vital reports and meeting schedules.
In his statement, Ambassador Al-Hammadi outlined Qatar’s commitments under the international drug control framework, emphasizing ongoing support for the UNODC’s initiatives. He highlighted Qatar’s active engagement in international coalitions addressing synthetic drug threats.
On a national level, Qatar’s Permanent Representative concluded by expressing national pride in the country’s achievements in protecting citizens from drug issues. This success is attributable to the National Drug Control Strategy, which promotes preventive measures through education and awareness to protect the youth from the dangers posed by drugs.
In summation, the State of Qatar has articulated a strong commitment to combatting the escalating global drug crisis by reinforcing international agreements and supporting relevant UN bodies. Despite significant challenges evidenced by rising drug production and consumption, Qatar remains focused on collaborative efforts to provide sustainable solutions, emphasizing the importance of addressing structural issues that foster drug economies. The nation takes pride in its comprehensive strategies aimed at safeguarding its population, particularly the youth, from drug-related harms.
Original Source: www.gulf-times.com
