Celebrating Martin Jelsma’s contribution to the drug policy reform movement

From the coca fields of Colombia to the corridors of the Vienna International Centre at the UN, Martin Jelsma has spent more than three decades working tirelessly to make drug policy more just, more humane, and more grounded in the lives of the people most affected by prohibition. At the end of July 2026, Martin retired as Programme Director of the Drugs and Democracy Programme at the Transnational Institute (TNI), closing a chapter that has shaped the drug policy reform movement as we know it.

Martin has often spoken about how slow and resistant to change the international drug control system has proven to be. And yet, he also recognised early on that every incremental gain that improves or saves lives is a victory worth fighting for.

Martin's search for justice, and his commitment to protecting the rights of those most affected by punitive drug policies while too often excluded from the decisions shaping their lives, has been nothing short of remarkable. It is in great part thanks to his tireless efforts that the harms of prohibition on traditional farmers of coca, cannabis and opium are now being seriously considered by the UN and countries in different parts of the world.

Despite his stature as one of the movement’s pioneers, Martin has remained approachable, kind and always willing to offer thoughtful guidance and advice. His incisive understanding of the politics of the UN drug control system and capacity to translate this knowledge into practical strategy have inspired generations of advocates - many of whom carry his influence into their own work today.

In addition to his strategic insight, thought leadership and generosity, Martin has modelled an uncompromising stance on the core principles that bind us – that human rights, social justice, solidarity and compassion are not optional, but fundamental to both drug policy and our movement.

TNI joined IDPC in 2008, just two years after IDPC's creation, and Martin has been part of our shared history ever since. As Martin begins a new chapter, we wish him all the very best – and look forward to our continued camaraderie and collaboration.

To hear more on Martin’s reflections on three decades of drug policy reform work, check out this video produced by the Rights Reporter Foundation: