KABUL (Pajhwok): The United Nations says the consumption and diversity of illicit drugs have increased globally in recent decades, as drug trafficking groups increasingly use new technologies to find innovative ways to deliver drugs to users.
On its official website marking June 26, the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the UN said that by resolution 42/112 adopted on 7 December 1987, the General Assembly decided to observe 26 June each year as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation toward an international society free of drug abuse.
The UN said the observance, supported each year by individuals, communities, and organizations worldwide, aims to raise awareness of the major threat that illicit drugs pose to society.
This year’s theme is: “The global drug problem: evidence-based solutions in health, justice and human rights.”
It added that drug consumption worldwide, along with the variety of substances available in illegal markets, has increased over past decades.
The UN said: “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 expansion in illicit drug markets.”
It further said drug trafficking groups are increasingly using technological innovations to target new audiences, expand access to drugs, and strengthen their multi-billion-dollar trade.
The United Nations added that illicit drug markets constantly adapt to changing conditions, while organized crime continues to exploit gaps in governance and regulation.
The UN said this year’s campaign highlights how the global community, national and local governments, civil society, and individuals are working together to adopt innovative responses to reduce both demand and supply of illicit drugs and mitigate related threats.
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