French bill proposes draconian expansion of surveillance powers in the name of drug control, despite lack of evidence for efficacy and substantial risks for privacy, digital security, and civil liberties.
While such tariffs may seem a persuasive political message, they hinder bilateral engagement, defer blame, and perpetuate the very problems they claim to address.
The session's agenda includes discussions on related issues, including synthetic drug use, intersections with human rights, and a gender-focused approach.
Harm Reduction International expose the large sums of aid being spent on drug prohibition worldwide, calling on governments and donors to divest from punitive policies and invest in health and human rights.
Huge amounts of aid have been spent on fuelling drug prohibition in lower-income countries, causing significant harm to vulnerable communities while defaulting on stated supply-reduction goals.
This side event at the 2023 SDG summit underscores that without a major reframing of the 'world drug problem' and a focus on sustainable development priorities, there is a risk of falling short of achieving the 2030 Agenda.
Instead of doubling down on counterproductive prohibitionist policies, governments should invest in evidence-based health alternatives, supportive services, and better approaches to regulation such as safer supply.
Within the frameworks of the Paradigma Coalition, Youth RISE and Students for Sensible Drug Policy International will deliver their annual Youth Response to the UNODC's World Drug Report.