Statement of the President of ECOSOC - Implementation of International Drug Policy Commitments

12/11/2024 – H.E. Mr. Bob Rae, President of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), addressed the opening of the 2024 Thematic Discussions on the Implementation of All International Drug Policy Commitments, highlighting the urgent need for a unified approach to drug policy.

In his address, Ambassador Rae emphasized the deeply human toll of drug dependence, which has led to countless lives lost and persistent suffering. He stressed the importance of viewing drug dependence through a lens of dignity, equity, and human rights, underscoring the barriers that marginalized populations, especially women, face in accessing treatment.

Ambassador Rae outlined the necessity of a coordinated effort involving health, education, law enforcement, and community organizations to combat the root causes of drug production, trafficking, and dependence. Noting the link between drug-related violence and broader social issues, he warned that this trend threatens development progress.

Highlighting data from the 2024 World Drug Report, Ambassador Rae pointed to the role of Artificial Intelligence in advancing data collection and analysis, supporting ECOSOC’s commitment to informed policy-making. He reiterated ECOSOC’s dedication to work together to implement the 2019 Ministerial Declaration.