CND68: Meeting 8

Good afternoon, everyone.

Dear colleagues, so now we will begin our examination of item 9 of our agenda. entitled Contributions by the Commission to the work of the Economic and Social Council in line with, including a follow-up and review and implementation of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The General Assembly, in its resolution 75/290A on the strengthening of the Economic and Social Council, established a coordination segment. This coordination segment is intended to provide guidance to the subsidiary bodies, ensuring a clearer division of labor among them and coordinate preparations for the high-level political forum. This year's coordination segment was held on the 6th and 7th of February. and we reported on this through a pre-recorded video message. The High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development will be convened under the auspices of ECOSOC in New York from 14 to 23 July 2025. The thematic focus will be advancing sustainable, inclusive science and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development goals for leaving no one behind. The SDGs under special review are Goal 3, good health and well-being; 5, gender equality; 8, decent work and economic growth; 14, life below water; and 17, partnership for the goals. As in past years, The Commission provided substantive input to the High-Level Political Forum. All delegations have been encouraged to link their statements under this item to the main theme of the ECOSOC and the High-Level Political Forum for 2025. Before I open the floor, I invite the Secretary, Jo De Dain Aman, to make introductory comments. Thank you.

Thank you much, Mr. Chair. And I would just ask if the presentation could be brought up. Yes, next slide, please. So, as you were already saying, Mr. Chair, the ECOSOC coordination segment was held in February, and we supported the chair of the CND in his presentation on recent contributions, in particular the outcomes of last year's 67th session. the outcome of the high-level segment, as well as the four resolutions adopted. And as this year's team was focusing on science and evidence-based solutions, the Chair also stressed in his contribution to the coordination segment the importance of evidence-based approaches and data collection and analysis as one of the core components of the work. of the Commission. The Commission is committed, being one of the functional commissions of the Economic and Social Council, to contributing to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda through balanced, integrated, comprehensive, multidisciplinary science and evidence-based international drug control policies. This commitment is illustrated through its yearly contribution to the High-Level Political Forum, and so there is a contribution that was submitted this year for the High-Level Political Forum to be held in July under the overarching theme "Advancing sustainable, inclusive science and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for leaving no one behind." Next slide, please. So before I go to provide some of the matters that were included in the contribution, I also want to mention that the SDGs under in-depth review this year are SDG 3 on good health and well-being, which is, of course, of direct relevance to the work of the Commission, 5 on gender equality, 8 on decent work, work and economic growth, 14 on life below water, and 17 on partnerships for the goals. In its written contribution to the HLPF this year, the Commission has made reference to its resolutions on preventing and responding to drug overdose, alternative development, access to and availability of controlled substances for medical and scientific purposes, including for the treatment of children; promoting recovery and related support services for people with drug use disorders; international scheduling and safe handling and disposal of synthetic drugs, their precursors, and other chemicals used in the illicit manufacture of drugs. And now one last slide to also say that upcoming events are the Economic Management Segment, which will have meetings in June and July this year, then the HLPF, as already referred to, to take place from the 14th to the 23rd of July, and then finally, these matters will also be dealt with in the context of the C&D thematic discussions, which will be held in December. second-half of this year. So, over to you, Mr. Chair. Thank you very much.

Thank you for that very interesting presentation. And now I would like to give the Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs to take the floor.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all is at the core, is at the center of the 2030 Agenda. In this regard, efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and effectively address the world drug problem are complementary and mutually reinforcing. UNODC is a custodian of 16 SDG indicators by itself or in cooperation with other agencies, including SDG 3, 5, 11, 15, and 16. In practice, This entails the development of the methodology to measure the indicator, supporting Member States in the implementation of these methodologies and in collecting the data, compiling and reporting data received from Member States to the global SDG database and to the UN Secretary-General's annual SDG report. The availability of high-quality data and research is of utmost importance if evidence-informed decisions are to be made to address global challenges and enable progress on the 2030 Agenda. I would like to highlight SDG 3, good health and well-being. So on that SDG, the annual report questionnaire gathers information on a wide range of subjects, related to drugs, from demand to supply and regulatory issues. The Commission on Narcotic Drugs encourages Member States to use the questionnaire to expand data collection on SDG target 3.5 to strengthen the prevention and treatment. By showcasing collected data on linkages between drug trafficking, organized crime, and illicit financial flows, CND also encourages expanding data collection on SDG 16, target 16.4, to significantly reduce illicit financial and arms flows, strengthen recovery and return of stolen assets, and combat all forms of organized crime. Based on data received from the questionnaire, UNODC, in consultation with WHO, produces estimates for SDG indicator 3.5.1, measuring the coverage of treatment interventions, subject to data availability, for over 100 Member States. UNODC will continue to work in coordination with countries on the use of additional sources of information to report on SDG indicator 3.5.1. Nevertheless, fewer than 30 countries worldwide have the capacity to monitor treatment coverage for drug use disorders on a regular basis. It's crucial to enhance coordination at the country level to increase data sharing, support regional hubs for data collection, and foster data sharing amongst international organizations. UNODC is also actively promoting better measurement of indicators of SDG 16, peace, justice, and strong institutions. UNODC, UNDP, and OHCHR, as custodians of 18 out of 24 indicators under Goal 16, have been working closely with national institutions and experts to develop the methodologies and increase the availability of nationally relevant and globally comparable data on human rights, justice, and governance. As underscored in the second Global Progress Report on Sustainable Development Goal 16 Indicators, jointly published by UNODC, UNDP, and OHCHR in 2024, data availability for Goal 16 indicators has improved since 2019. As of the 2024 data reporting cycle, 51% of countries have reported data for at least one year since 2015 across all targets of Goal 16, a considerable increase from the 22.7% in December 2019. However, despite the progress over the past five years, the persistent lack of data continues to impede the development of evidence-informed policies that could accelerate progress towards achieving Goal 16. In 2024, UNRDC further continued efforts to strengthen national statistical capacity and to increase country data coverage by holding global and regional capacity building events attended by over 450 participants from more than 130 countries. Also, in 2024, UNODC continued to support regional commissions and member states on methodological aspects of measuring and curbing crime-related illicit financial flows under a UN Development Account project. This work will continue through 2026. and will result in a series of additional tools to measure illicit financial flows related to drug trafficking and the production of new estimates by participating country for indicator 16.41, which measures the total value of inward and outward illicit financial flows. UNODC also supported other work on the measurement of illicit financial flows related to drug trafficking, including country-level technical support and the production of a new regional study examining trafficking on the Balkan route between 2019 and 2022, which was released two days ago. The study highlights trafficking of opiates and methamphetamine on the route, which remains a critical pathway for drug trafficking to Europe. The trafficking of drugs also has the potential to generate illicit financial flows related to the management of drug trafficking. Last year marked the adoption of Cybercrime Convention to prevent and combat cybercrime effectively. Cybercrime facilitates crime, including drug trafficking, and undermines economies, disrupting critical infrastructure and eroding trust in the digital world. UNODC has been and will continue to support Member States in their efforts in responding to cybercrime, including drug-related offences. The Summit of the Future, held in September 2024, provided an opportunity to create international mechanisms to better reflect today's and tomorrow's challenges and opportunities. During the summit, Member States adopted the Pact for the Future and its annexes, the Global Digital Compact and Declaration on Future Generations. The Pact outlines key avenues, including those related to improving quality and access to health care globally, to bring the implementation of SDGs back on track with five years remaining of the 2030 Agenda. The aim for improved health relates directly to UNWDC's work on SDG 3. This year, the High-Level Political Forum under the auspices of the Economic and Social Council, will focus, as it was mentioned already, on advancing sustainable, inclusive science and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for leaving no one behind. The 2025 High-Level Political Forum will review SDG 3 on good health and well-being, among others, and UNODC is planning to meaningfully contribute to the forum. UNODC stands ready to support Member States in the implementation of the Pact for the Future, as well as the process leading to the forum. Drug-related issues, such as expanding range of drugs and diversifying markets, synthetic opioids and illicit cultivation, production of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, and drug trafficking overlapping with other forms of organized crime, Human trafficking and money laundering hinder progress towards achieving the 2030 Agenda. Addressing these global threats is crucial to ensure a balanced, comprehensive, and people-centered approach to the world drug problem. I thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you for that presentation. And now I open the floor for delegations. According to my list of speakers, I will give Thailand the floor. Thailand, you have the floor.

Excellencies, distinguished guests, the success of the Royal Project inspired by His Majesty King Rama IX for over 55 years. has been recognized globally, fitting to the United Nations Guiding Principles on Alternative Development, and fostering international allies, including Lao PDR, Myanmar, Bhutan, Afghanistan, and Colombia. Now, alternative development faces new challenges that require adaptable strategies and collaborative knowledge exchange. To reinforce this commitment, the Royal Project Foundation recently organised the International Conference on "From AD to SDG: Empowering Alternative Development to Address Global Challenges". His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Her Majesty The Queen graciously presided over, delivered the Royal Address, underscoring His Excellency's The outcome of this conference would be benefit to development operations being carried out in Thailand and beyond, in our effort to keep up with the rapid changes in the global situation, thereby contributing to a long-lasting well-being of humanity in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The conference foster collaboration and knowledge exchange, empowering underdeveloped nations' capacity to address global challenges. Key strategies from the gathering include: First, further advance a broad-based economic recovery that offers a range of alternative livelihoods while safeguarding social equity and environmental sustainability. based on the sufficiency economy philosophy. Second, advocate transformative reforms to strengthen national and global governance that strive to foster a more equitable world. Third, encourage the willingness and full participation of local communities, relevant organizations, and civil society in designing and implementing alternative development strategies to ensure ownership and long-term sustainability. Fourth, promote inclusive leadership development that engages all stakeholders by empowering individuals. Fifth, foster alternative development programs as a key component of national and international development agendas by leaving no one behind. I would like to thank all our esteemed guests and delegates for their participation and contributions to the conference. It serves as a catalyst for the empowerment of alternative development, strengthening international cooperation, advancing the 2030 Agenda, and building a more inclusive and sustainable future. Thank you.

Thank you to the distinguished delegate of Thailand. And now I will give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Argentina. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Argentina would like to say for the record that regarding the word gender, we understand it as It stands in international treaty law that gender refers to the two sexes, masculine and feminine, in the context of society. The term gender has no other meaning than that, and that is reflected in the Rome Statute, article 7.3. With regards to the gender perspective, the commitment of Argentina to the rights of women is long-standing and is included in its legislation and domestic practices and go beyond international standards. However, Implementing a sectorialized perspective for human rights generates inequities which are contrary to the goal of non-discrimination. For Argentina, Agenda 2030 is made-up of aspirations that are not legally binding and that each state, in exercise of its sovereignty, has the right to interpret and pursue freely. Our country expressed its disagreement on the Pact for the Future, because it will not be accompanied by any policy that entails the restriction of individual freedoms, trade, or the violation of the natural rights of individuals, regardless of who promotes the consensus of the institution. And we would like this on the record. Thank you.

Thank you, Argentina. And now I will give the floor.

To India.

Thank you very much, Chair. Excellencies, we take this opportunity to draw the attention of this august gathering to the recent resolution number 79/137 by the United Nations General Assembly, which proclaimed December 21st as the World Meditation Day. to promote the importance of mental and emotional well-being through meditation. The resolution recalled the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. India was among the co-sponsors of this resolution. There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that meditation can be used as a preventive strategy for many mental health problems, including substance use. Research suggests that regular practice of meditation leads to reduction of stress, decrease in impulsivity, has a positive impact on those with traumatic experiences, and increases well-being. These attributes make it a promising modality which needs to be explored as a preventive strategy as well as an adjunctive treatment strategy to improve well-being. We urge agencies like WHO and UNODC to consider reviewing the available evidence, conducting more research if required, and provide recommendations and guidance to the Member States on using meditation as a preventive or adjunctive treatment strategy to address drug use. Thank you very much, Chair.

Thank you to India for that statement. And now I will give the floor to the distinguished delegate of Colombia. Colombia, you have the floor.

Good afternoon, Chair, or Vice-Chair. Colombia considers that there is a close link between drugs policy and the comprehensive, balanced, and indivisible implementation of Agenda 2030 for sustainable development and its Sustainable Development Goals. Implementing Agenda 2030 and its Sustainable Development Goals is necessary, among other reasons, to counter the negative impact of climate change, pollution, loss of biodiversity, as well as global threats to peace and coexistence. Therefore, we must continue to focus on achieving sustainable development, which is fair, equitable, and truly inclusive. Colombia is progressing towards development based on carbon neutrality and a transition towards clean and renewable energy. For this model to be effective, it has to be based on social justice and environmental protection, fundamental pillars for the implementation of Agenda 2030. Without these principles, humanity cannot guarantee its own survival, nor can it establish a balanced and sustainable relationship with nature in the long term. This year, the High-Level Political Forum has a main theme of sustainable, inclusive, and scientific and empirical-based solutions for Agenda 2030 for sustainable development and the Sustainable Development Goals to leave no one behind. This leads us to wonder about the contributions of CND to this forum and ECOSOC in general. Will our decisions and contribute, are our decisions, contributions really evidence-based? Are we inclusive? Are we really trying to not leave anyone behind when we refuse or deny the benefits of harm reduction measures when there are thousands of people who suffer pain in the world, given inequity of access and the affordability of controlled medicines? Are we really in this forum to overcome these barriers? There is huge potential for drug policies to contribute to peacebuilding, placing people and the environment at its heart. For that reason, for Colombia, it is clear that the promises and aspirations underlying Agenda 2030 will only be feasible if we are flexible and coherent enough to correct the failure of the war on drugs and, in turn, to make drug control policies into a tool to achieve wider-ranging goals, such as protecting human rights, protecting environmental rights, promoting gender equality, among others. Thank you.

Thank you to Colombia for that statement. And now I will give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States. You have the floor.

Thank you, Vice Chair, for giving me the floor. The United States took the floor, sir, so that we could express our views. The United States opposes the link between the work of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs and the Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals. Agenda 2030 and the SDGs advance a program of soft global governance that is inconsistent with U.S. sovereignty and advances and is adverse to the rights and interests of the American people. This agenda item should instead reaffirm CND’s core purpose to assist ICOSAC in supervising the application of the international drug control treaties. We regret we did not raise this earlier when this agenda item was adopted, but that is our clear position. Thank you, Chair.

Thank you. to the representative of the United States. And now I will give the floor to the representative of the UN Commission for Human Rights. Thank you.

Thank you, Chair. I'm honored to address you on behalf of the United Nations Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture in my capacity as its vice-chair. SDG 16, to provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels, is key to the work of the Subcommittee, as we also recall the positive commitment of the UN Member States in 2016 Ministerial Declaration to respect, protect, and promote all human rights, fundamental freedoms, and the inherent dignity of all individuals and the rule of law in the development and implementation of drug policies. Although in the 2019 Ministerial Declaration, UN Member States expressed concern regarding responses to the world drug problem that are not in conformity with applicable international human rights obligations, the last year's UNGA's resolution from 17th December reaffirmed the international community's commitment to a balanced, integrated, comprehensive, multidisciplinary, and scientific evidence-based approach to the world drug problem. Notwithstanding this, punitive drug policies prevail in many States, despite being ineffective in reducing drug trafficking or addressing non-medical drug use and supply. Such policies have also given rise to torture and other ill-treatment, despite the absolute prohibition of these practices in international law. The Subcommittee, as the UN human rights treaty body established in accordance with the Optional Protocol to the Torture Convention, Recalling SDG 16, is devoting a section of its upcoming annual report to its own experiences on the impact of drug policies on effective torture prevention strategies. Such approaches as the zero-tolerance and war on drugs policies implementing through widespread arrests, mandatory pre-trial detention, and sentencing have gravest consequences for many individuals, persons deprived of their liberty, as these significantly contribute to detention overcrowding. Moreover, the Subcommittee has emphasized that effective drug strategies must include prevention, harm reduction, and the provision of effective outpatient treatment with appropriate follow-up and provision of care and treatment in the communities, minimizing reliance on the deprivation of liberty as part of the response to drug use. Equally, any treatment provided in drug treatment centers must be voluntary, evidence-based, holistic, and carried out solely by specifically trained interdisciplinary medical personnel. Dear Chair, As the subcommittee continues to implement its mandate, we shall retain and reinforce our focus on the negative impact of drug policies on torture prevention strategies. To this end, we recognize the principal role of the CND as the UN's policy-making body with prime responsibility for drug control and other drug-related matters. and stand ready for constructive engagement and cooperation to ensure full and proper reflection of the absolute prohibition of torture and ill-treatment in all drug control and other drug-related matters of the UN, as we all strive towards full implementation of SDG 16. I thank you for your attention.

Thank you to the representative of the High Commission for Human Rights, and now I will give the floor to the distinguished representative of Interpol. You have the floor.

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, With regards to views on how the CND can contribute to the accelerated implementation of the 2030 Agenda, in particular SDG 16 on peace, justice and strong institutions, and SDG 17 on partnerships for the goals, INTERPOL offers following three main insights and recommendations. First, the CND can further highlight the deep connections between transnational crime and sustainable development, underscoring how criminal activities undermine progress across multiple SDGs. By highlighting the far-reaching consequences of drug trafficking and organized crime, the CND can demonstrate how strengthening SDG 16 creates a foundation for achieving other goals, such as SDG 1, poverty reduction, SDG 3, good health and well-being, and SDG 8, economic growth. This approach would reinforce the need for comprehensive, cross-sectoral strategies that address both the symptoms and root causes of the world drug problem. Second, the CND can advocate for thematic priorities aligned with emerging crime trends as identified by relevant organizations such as Interpol, including polycriminality and combating both cybercrime and financial crime as enablers of drug-related offenses. To disrupt financial networks fueling drug trafficking, the CND could encourage ECOSOC to enhance collaboration between law enforcement, financial institutions, and technology companies. Interpol's expertise in tracking illicit financial flows, including cryptocurrency-related laundering, can help shape targeted policies for asset tracing and seizure. In this regard, Interpol’s Silver Notice pilot programme enables Member States to request information on assets linked to crimes such as drug trafficking, fraud, corruption, crimes that affect the environment, and other serious offences. This tool helps locate and identify laundered assets, including properties, vehicles, and financial accounts, facilitating international cooperation on asset seizure and Launched in January 2025, with 51 countries currently engaged in the program, the first silver notice was issued by Italy to trace the assets of a senior mafia member. Lastly, strengthening cooperation with intergovernmental organizations beyond the UN system can significantly enhance the CND's effectiveness by promoting synergies and preventing duplicating of efforts. The recent adoption of the UN General Assembly Resolution 79/136 on cooperation between UN and INTERPOL further underscores the need for a unified and collaborative response to evolving transnational threats. The resolution calls on Member States to actively leverage INTERPOL's secure communication systems, databases, and advanced tools available to its 196 member countries. This partnership ensures that global security policies are informed by law enforcement insights and operational needs, enabling a more strategic and coordinated effort to combat the world drug problem. Interpol remains confident that integrating global law enforcement perspectives can help the CND foster strategic partnership and advance durable peace, justice, and strong institutions worldwide. I thank you.

Thank you to the representative of INTERPOL. And now I will give the floor to the Eurasian Harm Reduction Association. You have the floor.

Thank you, distinguished Chair, esteemed delegates. I speak today on behalf of Eurasian Harm Reduction Association. its members and partners across Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia, or CECA, to address an urgent concern: the alarming shrinkage of civil society space and its detrimental impact on public health, human rights, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. In recent years, governments in the CEECA region have increasingly adopted restrictive legislation and policies, such as foreign agent laws, severely limiting the operational capacity of civil society. Organizations, especially those working with vulnerable populations, including LGBTQI+ individuals, people living with HIV, people who use drugs, and sex workers, These repressive measures, intensified by geopolitical conflicts, such as ongoing war in Ukraine, U.S. aid stop work order, have resulted in reduced access to vital health care services, heightened vulnerabilities to HIV and other health threats, and increased human rights violations. Civil society and community-led organizations are crucial partners in delivering essential health services, promoting evidence-based policy reforms, and advocating for human rights. However, restrictive laws such as those targeting organizations through labels like "foreign agents" or "undesirable," and legislation criminalizing propaganda related to sexuality or drug use, pose direct threats to the existence, safety, and effectiveness of these vital groups. To uphold commitments under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 16 on peaceful and inclusive societies, as well as SDG 3 on health and well-being, we urgently call on the international community, Member States, donor governments, and philanthropic entities too, First, recognize shrinking civil society space in the CEECA region as a critical barrier to achieving public health and human rights goals, and proactively work to protect and expand these spaces. 2. Ensure sustained and flexible funding for community-led responses, prioritizing support for civil society and human rights defenders facing increased risks due to restrictive policies and political instability. 3. Adopt intersectional approaches to advocacy and programming that recognize the interconnected nature of public health, human rights, and civic freedoms. 4. Actively support efforts towards decriminalization and removal removal of punitive policies targeting marginalized communities, thereby reducing stigma and discrimination; and five, facilitate international dialogue and coordination to uphold the safety, security, and sustainability of civil society and community-led initiatives in the region. Only by protecting and expanding civic spaces can we effectively pursue health, dignity, and human rights, ensuring no one is left behind. Thank you.

Thank you to the representative of the Eurasian Harm Reduction Association. And now, next on my list of speakers, I have the representative of the Slum Child Foundation. You have the floor.

Chair, Excellencies, distinguished guests, Slumchild Foundation is honored to address this session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs and contribute to the discussion on how drug policies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. As a grassroots organization working with vulnerable children and youth in informal settlements of Nairobi, Kenya, we recognize the interconnectedness of the world drug problem with the broader social and economic development challenges. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development emphasizes the need for inclusive, people-centered approach that address poverty, inequality, and social injustices. We firmly believe that tackling drug-related challenges require integrated response that support vulnerable population, particularly children and youth. In this regard, we highlight the following key consideration: one, strengthen prevention strategies aligned with SDG 3, which is good health and well-being, as outlined in the UNODC International Prevention Standards; two, addressing the socio-economic drivers of drug use in line with SDG 1, no poverty, and SDG 4, quality education; three, upholding child protection in drug policy in line with SDG 16, which is peace, justice, and strong institutions, as enshrined in the UN CRC framework with a child-centered approach. Much has been done, but much more needs to be done. Four, strengthening international cooperation in the spirit of SDG 17, partnership for the goals. And as Slumchild Foundation, we must acknowledge the support received by UNODC and African Union for the establishment of the African Civil Society Forum on Drugs to keep promoting the spirit of collaboration between Member States and civil society. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, Slumchild Foundation reaffirms its commitment to supporting global efforts in addressing drug-related challenges through community-driven intervention, youth empowerment, and advocacy for policies that align with the Sustainable Development Goals. We urge Member States to: 1. Strengthen child protection frameworks in drug policies. 2. Invest in education, economic empowerment, and prevention initiatives to address the root causes root causes of substance abuse; and lastly, promote international partnership to achieve a drug-free and sustainable future for all. By integrating drug policy in a broader development agenda, we can create resilient communities where children and youth are protected from drug-related harm and empowered to achieve their full potential. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I now give the floor to, I thank the representative from Slumchild and I now give the floor to YouthRise. You have the floor.

Once again, Mr. Chair and esteemed delegates, This time I'm speaking on behalf of YouFries, a global youth-led network that advocates for the rights, well-being, and inclusion of YWBPUD and policies and programs that impact them. Drug control intersects with much of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Our statement today aims to highlight the intersection between the achievement of the SDGs and a comprehensive and balanced response to drug-related challenges that adopts a full-spectrum approach to harm reduction. It is crucial to acknowledge how prevention and harm reduction are complementary and not mutually exclusive responses to the world drug situation. Both should respect, protect, and promote the human rights and well-being of all people, including key populations. As we look ahead to the 2025 High-Level Political Forum, where SDG 3 on good health and well-being will be main focus, we seek to work with Member States and other international bodies to align drug policies with complementary and evidence-based prevention and harm reduction approaches that uphold human rights, public health, and social justice. Member States have pledged to leave no one behind, and this commitment must be at the center of all drug-related policies. The UN Common Position on Drug-Related Matters outlined a blueprint for action, charting a path that promotes effective and humane drug control policies. In line with inter-agency efforts of collaboration, UNDP has elaborated the International Guidelines on Human Rights and Drug Policy, which provides clear guidance for governments. Last year, the CND made a huge step by introducing the harm reduction concept in a resolution. Similarly, recent recommendations from the report of the Special Rapporteur on the right to health call for the implementation of the full measures of drug harm reduction policies. In 2024, EUPHRYS conducted research with practitioners, peers, researchers, social workers, and people who use drugs to understand the role of social determinants on health outcomes. It also maps innovative approaches aimed at reducing the harms related to drug use, drug control policies, and contextual socioeconomic inequalities. Our report emphasizes the need to strengthen and integrate services such as health care, evidence-based prevention, reduction and systems of legal and social support, among others. It also mentions the benefits of regional and global exchange of knowledge, experience, and cross-learning between organizations working in harm reduction to advance best and innovative practices. This exchange among global partners represents a means to respond to adversities and can only happen when our work is valued, acknowledged, and not criminalized or curbed by local police that focus on punitive paradigms to respond to drug-related challenges. One of the most pressing barriers to expand harm reduction services is the lack of adequate funding. The global state of harm reduction shows a trend of consistent underfunding, with only 4% of estimated resources needed being recovered. This picture is likely to get worse. A recent assessment conducted by Harm Reduction International indicates that cut-off PEPFAR funding has caused harm reduction service closures in many countries, posing an immediate threat to life and paving the way for increases in new HIV and HCV infections. Community organizations and peer workers, the backbone of harm reduction services, are the hardest hit. Without investment in inclusive harm reduction strategies, we will fall to meet SDG 3 vision of health for all. Our research shows that innovative harm reduction practices have emerged from resource-constrained settings, and these models offer value insights for scaling up effective services. With adequate investment, we can achieve much more for positive health-related outcomes. Governments, international organizations, and philanthropic bodies must prioritize financial resources to continue supporting harm reduction efforts. particularly those that target marginalized and key populations. Today, we urge all governments to recognize the integration of evidence-based prevention, including harm reduction, as a core element of it. Two, stop spending vast amounts on punitive approaches and instead step up and use domestic budgets to close the gaps in services that help us achieve the SDGs. Prioritize strong pledges to the Global Fund and the largest donor for harm reduction.

Sir, please, every...

Sorry.

Intervening there has respect the time, so.

Yeah, so just the four last point and I'm finishing. So, finally decriminalize drugs and reform legal frame.

Thank you very much. Now I give the floor to the Vienna NGO Committee on Drugs. Please, you have the floor, sir. Thank you.

Thank you, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, and esteemed colleagues. I'm Matej Kucir, just reelected as the chair of the Vienna NGO Committee on Drugs, and I'm speaking on behalf of both the Vienna and the New York NGO Committee on Drugs. As we approach the 10th anniversary of the 2016 UNGASS, we must reaffirm the fundamental role of civil society in shaping effective, balanced, and evidence-based drug policies. Civil society organizations are essential partners in implementing the international drug control conventions, advancing public health, and protecting human rights. They bridge the gap between policymakers and affected communities, ensuring that those most impacted by drug policies have a voice in decision-making. We are deeply concerned about the shrinking space for civil society engagement in international drug policy discussions. Recent shifts in funding priorities have led to reduced financial support for civil society organizations, weakening their capacity to deliver services and advocate for meaningful and evidence-based changes. Without sustained support and inclusion, we risk losing critical perspectives and innovative solutions that civil society organizations bring to the table. This year's High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development will review SDG 3 on good health and well-being, as well as other SDGs crucial for drug policy, including SDG 5 on gender equality, SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth, and SDG 17 on partnerships. The success of these goals depends on a strong, engaged civil society, including people with lived and living experience. Looking ahead, we urge Member States and international bodies to: Ensure long-term financial and institutional support for civil society organizations. Guarantee inclusive and meaningful civil society participation in policy processes, including the upcoming High-Level Political Forum. Second World Summit for Social Development and beyond. Protect the operational space of civil society organizations, upholding fundamental freedoms, and strengthen partnerships that leverage the unique expertise of civil society organizations. Honorable delegates, inclusive public health and human rights-based approaches are the most effective path forward. Let us reaffirm our commitment to working together, governments, international organizations, and civil society, to ensure drug policies truly leave no one behind. Thank you.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much. Thank you for that statement. Would any other delegation like to take the floor under this agenda item that was not on the list of speakers? I don't see any further requests for the floor. I declare this agenda item closed. And now, we can go on to agenda item 10, provisional agenda for the 69th session of the Commission. The draft provisional agenda for the 69th session was considered by the Extended Bureau during its meeting on 21 February 2025, and the Chairs of the regional groups were requested to hold consultations with their membership. During the meeting on 12 March 2025, the Extended Bureau agreed to put forward the draft agenda as contained in document E/CN.7/2025/L8. Can I now invite the Commission? Can I ask if Can I now invite the Commission to approve the provisional agendas contained in the document? With the symbol E/C9.7/2025/L8. The distinguished representative of the United States has requested the floor. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. The United States has a proposal for item 9, contributions of the work of the Commission, contributions by the Commission to the work of the Economic and Social Council. We believe that the agenda item should stop there and delete the phrase that follows from it, which would Well, just delete that phrase. Thank you, Chair.

Thank you.

Thank you to the United States. And now I will give the floor to the distinguished Ambassador of Argentina. You have the floor.

Thank you, Vice Chair. With regards to the inclusion of item 9 on the provisional agenda of the 69th session of the CND, and referring to the mention of the follow-up to the implementation of Agenda 2030, the Argentinian delegation would like to state that for Argentina, Agenda 2030 is composed of aspirations which are not legally binding, and each state in the exercise of its sovereignty, has the right to interpret and pursue them freely. Therefore, the Argentinian delegation supports what the US just said and would suggest deleting item 9 from the provisional agenda with deleting the sentence, including the follow-up examination implementation of Agenda 2030 for sustainable development."

Thank you to Argentina. There is a proposed change. This has to be agreed to by the Commission.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Our delegation is opposed to the suggestion just made by the US and supported by Argentina delegation. We feel that this is an important agenda item and we would like to keep it as it suggested. Thank you.

Thank you to Finland. And the Netherlands has requested the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We've carefully listened to the proposal made by the US and Argentina. This Agenda 2030 and the SDGs have been agreed between all of us. They are important for us. The basics for much of our policy, domestic as well as foreign, in the field of drug policy as well as outside of it. During this week, we have also heard some voices opposing to it. We are concerned about this development. We have therefore, in those cases, raised our voice to question this position and to underscore the importance that this agenda has for us. If some countries now question this, we have to acknowledge this. It is a reality. We appreciate the US delegation for sharing their concerns. But as this was agreed among the whole international community, we think that many other countries like us would see the interest of the SCGs and the Agenda 2030 from all regions, all over the world. We see this as being about the common interests of all of us here in this room, and as this common agenda concerns all fields of work, including that of international drug policy, my delegation is of the opinion that it deserves a firm place in our draft provisional agenda for the next year CND. For that reason, Mr. Chair, my delegation would object against its deletion from that agenda.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you to the Netherlands. Austria has the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I would just like to echo what my colleagues from the Netherlands and Finland said. We are opposing to the suggestion to delete the mentioning of the SDGs. Thank you.

Thank you, Austria. Belgium has the floor.

Thank you very much.

Just like my colleagues from the Netherlands, Finland and Austria, we would like to maintain this point in the agenda.

Thank you.

Thank you, Belgium. And now I give the floor to France.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. France, among other colleagues, will also oppose this deletion. Thank you very much.

Microphone, please.

United Kingdom.

The UK has the floor.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Maybe let's just start by thinking about this in maybe slightly more logical terms. We've got an agenda that's been put before us for a meeting which will take place in a year's time. So maybe we have sufficient time to overcome these differences that we're hearing about for the first time today. In fact, we've got a year. So maybe what we could do is propose, but of course, this is a question for the Secretariat, whether we could take this question away with us and work on a solution to the language, because it's clear that there are divisions which are being felt for the first time here in this room, but which we can maybe discuss and overcome with time, given that we all generally agree on the need to tackle these important issues. So it's a question really to the Secretariat about whether or not we can postpone this discussion, have it another time, and maybe have a think about how we want to reflect our exact positions in the wording. Thank you.

Thank you to the United Kingdom. And now I give the floor to Spain. Spain, you have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Very briefly, we would be opposed to deleting that reference to Agenda 2030.

Thank you.

Thank you, Spain. Portugal has the floor.

Portugal also opposes to the deletion of this topic.

We consider that it's very important that the CND continues to discuss SDGs. So we oppose to the proposal made by US and Argentina to delete it. Thank you.

Thank you, Portugal. And now Mexico has the floor.

Thank you very much, Chair, for giving us the floor. The delegation of Mexico understands the position taken because of ECOSOC. A functional committee cannot change this agenda. Thank you.

Thank you, Mexico. And now Algeria has the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. So we are interested to hear the reaction of the Secretariat to the proposal of UK, but meanwhile, we express also our support for maintaining the reference to SDGs. Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you to Algeria. And now Colombia has the floor. Thank you.

Thank you, Chair. So, given the suggestion of excluding that part of the item, we are opposed to that too, because of what we said under the previous agenda item and because we consider that Agenda 2030 for sustainable development and its goals were the result of big multilateral efforts and therefore are part of ECOSOC and therefore should be kept on CND’s agenda, especially now that we are close to the deadline. Thank you.

Thank you. Colombia. South Africa has requested the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Thank you for giving me the floor. Like the other speakers that have taken the floor to oppose the deletion. We join those. We feel that the agenda item 9 should remain as is, but we also would like to hear from the chair if there's a way to resolve the impasse. Thank you very much.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you. Chile now has the floor.

Thank you, Chair, for giving us the floor. Chile would prefer to keep the original wording, and we would like to hear from the Secretary whether there is a way to solve this situation. Thank you.

Muchas gracias, Chile.

Thank you, Chile. Australia has requested the floor.

Thank you, Chair. I will add my name to the list of people who would like to see the mention of SDGs remain and also would be open to a solution provided by the Chair. Thank you.

Thank you, Australia. I will now give the floor to Malta.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I would also like to echo our support for the retention of the SDGs in the agenda. Thank you very much.

Thank you to Malta. And now I will give the floor to Lithuania. You have the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Also, Lithuania supports other countries' maintenance of SDG in documents.

Thank you to Lithuania. And now I give Slovenia the floor.

Thank you, Chair. Slovenia also supports the retainment of the original agenda item.

Thank you, Slovenia. Canada has the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. We also support maintaining the agenda item as is.

Okay.

Poland, Poland has the floor.

I would like also to support the retention of the original agenda of the forthcoming session, the CND session. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Poland. And Switzerland has also requested the floor.

Here, Switzerland would also like to oppose to the deletion of SDG. Thank you.

Thank you to Switzerland. I believe the United Kingdom has requested the floor again. Please go ahead.

Thank you very much, Chair, and apologies for taking the floor again. Of course, the position of the UK is to support these important agenda, the 2030 agenda and the SDGs, but the question really is one of practicality. We have an agenda to agree. We have divergent positions. The question is, given that we have one year left before we actually have the agenda, well, I see the Secretariat maybe has a different position. When do we need to have this agreed? Why do we need to have it agreed by when? And I think I also heard from our distinguished colleague from Mexico that actually this needs to be a decision by ECOSOC. So if some information could be shared on the more legalistic elements of agreeing an agenda, how we can go ahead in the next year, it would be appreciated.

Thank you. I will give the floor to the Secretary.

I can confirm that this goes in the report, and then the report is considered by the Economic and Social Council at its management meeting in either June or July, depending on the agenda. So, of course, it's ultimately up to the Commission. to decide what it wants to do. But what I want to say is that, in fact, there is the process of having a decision by ECOSOC on this, and you also have to see that this agenda is critical in order both for the Secretariat and the delegations to prepare for the session. So it's not possible to have an agreement on this very short before, because that would really hamper hamper the preparations. So there is a good reason why it is basically on the agenda of the regular session, and it is included as a draft ECOSOC decision in the report. It is recommended to ECOSOC for ECOSOC then to act upon in the context of its management meeting. Having said this, it is of course the prerogative of the Commission to decide on how it wishes to organize its work.

Thank you.

Thank you to the Secretary. This item was to be discussed tomorrow. I propose that we suspend our consideration of this agenda item until tomorrow. so that we have time to think about it, and we can deal with it tomorrow morning. But this is a proposal. I hope I would have your support.

Would

any delegation like to take the floor, or does any delegation not agree with the proposal that I just made? The distinguished Ambassador of Argentina has the floor.

My delegation has no objection to suspend the consideration of this agenda item for the time being, to give more time to the Secretariat as well as to delegations to consider about the options. But in the meanwhile, my delegation would like to request the Secretariat to provide delegations today or tomorrow, before the consideration of the agenda items, furthermore, about whether the inclusion of that part that phrase, the last phrase on the title of the agenda items for the provisional agenda for next year, whether there's a mandate, it's a specific mandate from ECOSOC to the CND, or having a decision by the CND, when was that? So for the delegation to have a clear standing from the legal point of view. Okay? Thank you very much.

Thank you, Argentina. Mexico has the floor.

Thank you, Vice Chair. I believe there is interpretation in all languages. Thank you. I just wondered because of the last statement. So I listened. to some of the Secretariat’s explanations, but we still have a doubt, and I’m grateful for the question asked by the distinguished delegate of Argentina, as it’s very relevant, and the answer that we get this afternoon or tomorrow morning is important too. It is true that States are sovereign, they make decisions, we can make decisions in commissions, but this is a functional commission of ECOSOC, and we reflect the work of ECOSOC with every single one of its commissions, not just one or two. We can't pick and choose. So, as some other delegations have said, if this was on the agenda, then it was because we accepted it because we received an instruction from ECOSOC, the higher body, as we are one of its commissions. Therefore, we await your information to refresh our memories as to why this was on the agenda. I'm sure it wasn't just pulled out of a hat, and I'm sure it was part of health and well-being, just as drug treatment is in a commission which is part of ECOSOC, and it is on ECOSOC's agenda, which is under the concept of health, which is part of social affairs. Thank you.

Thank you to Mexico. I don't know if the Secretariat can give us any information now, or should we wait?

If I may, Mr. Chair, refer in this regard also to the annotated agenda for this meeting, which gives under this agenda item a reference to a number of resolutions, indeed, in which the subsidiary bodies of the Economic and Social Council are, in a way, expected, requested to contribute to the work of the Economic and Social Council. So I think the references that are contained in the annotated agenda are the references to the resolutions that are of direct relevance to the issue that we are discussing here. Thank.

You.

Mexico has requested the floor again.

Yes, thank you. Thank you to the Secretary for that information, which confirms our conviction, that of my delegation, that this is a mandate from ECOSOC itself, and as such, we would have to receive a review of that mandate from ECOSOC. It is not a decision that this subsidiary body can make against what has been determined by ECOSOC itself. Thank you.

Thank you, Mexico. Argentina has requested the floor. Ambassador, you have the floor.

Thank you. I will speak in my mother tongue because apparently, others don't like other official users, although we did speak English in the past too. Vice-Chair, once again, our question is: what are the specific paragraphs of the resolution that is included in the annotated agenda? Where is the specific mandate to CND to include this specific subject, the monitoring and review and implementation of Agenda 2030. Where is that mandate? Because my delegation has not found it. Where is it physically? So, because it isn't compulsory, but we are open to the legal interpretation provided by the Secretariat. Thank you.

Well, so there's not enough information to deal with this quickly. There's no precedent. So we need time for the Secretariat to take a look and then we can work on it. So I would like to reiterate my proposal to suspend this agenda item now until tomorrow, because, as I said, we were meant to deal with it tomorrow, and then we can make decisions with all the necessary information. Would any delegation have a different opinion? Would any delegation be opposed to my proposal? I see none, therefore, thank you. And we will suspend this agenda item until tomorrow. Thank you. Let us now go on to item 11, other business. No other business has been brought to the attention of the Extended Bureau or the Secretariat. Does any delegation wish to bring other matters to the attention of the Commission? I see no request for the floor. So the only outstanding item is agenda item 12, adoption of the report of the Commission on its sixty-eighth session. So if there is nothing else for now, this meeting is adjourned. Thank you.