The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, or World Drug Day, is annually observed across the globe on 26th June to create awareness regarding the negative effects of drug abuse and illegal trade.
- The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) has announced the theme for 2023 as ‘People first: Stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention’.
Key Points:
i.The global event encourages people to quit drug usage and adopt a healthier lifestyle by conducting various campaigns, rallies, and awareness programs that create awareness about the ill effects of drug abuse.
ii.The main objective of celebrating this day is to understand the underlying causes of drug usage and promote evidence-based approaches to drug prevention and treatment.
History:
i.The Day is observed to honour Lin Zexu, who played a vital role in demolishing the opium trade in Guangdong region of China.
ii.On 7th December 2023, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/42/112 and proclaimed June 26 as International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to support the efforts that make society drug-free.
Significance:
i.Globally, the day is observed by organising various events for the public of different age groups and the need for more efficient drug recovery centres which can be accessed easily.
ii.Special attention to youngsters to create awareness among them about the ill side effects of drug abuse and addiction.
Mission 2023 will focus:
i.To create awareness regarding the impacts of stigma and discrimination on people using drugs.
ii.To promote voluntary services for all the people who use drugs.
iii.To educate regarding drug use, available treatments, and the importance of possible support.
iv.To combat stigma and discrimination by promoting language that is respectful and not judgmental.
v.To encourage the young ones to prevent drug use and any kind of addiction.
Note: The first International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was organised with the theme ‘Think Health, Not Drugs’.
About United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC):
Executive Director– Ghada Fathi Waly
Headquarters– Vienna, Austria
