Iran Joins Global Fight Against Drugs at 68th UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs Session

Brigadier General Hossein Zolfaqari, the Secretary General of the Iranian Drug Control Headquarters (DCHQ), is currently attending the 68th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) in Vienna, Austria. This important event, running from March 10 to 14, focuses on critical global drug issues, international drug control policies, and collaborative efforts to combat drug-related challenges.

The CND serves as the primary policy-making body within the United Nations system for addressing all matters related to drugs. This session aims to:

• Examine the global drug situation
• Promote international drug control mechanisms
• Assess the effectiveness of international institutions in drug control

In its role, the CND reviews the current state of global drug issues, balancing the interconnected challenges of illegal drug demand, supply, and trafficking. The commission also monitors the implementation of international conventions concerning narcotics, psychotropic substances, and chemical precursors.

Furthermore, the CND provides recommendations aimed at strengthening international drug control activities, facilitating scientific research, and fostering information exchange. This collaborative effort supports the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations in executing its responsibilities and shapes the policies governing the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and its financial resources.

During his participation, Zolfaqari is expected to deliver a significant speech during a high-level segment. He will also engage in both bilateral and multilateral meetings with various officials, including:

• Members of the Narcotics Commission
• The Executive Director of the UNODC
• The President of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), Jallal Toufiq
• Ministers and heads of delegations from other countries

Additionally, the DCHQ, with the support of the UNODC, plans to share Iran’s experiences regarding various measures implemented in the fields of harm reduction, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and the social reintegration of recovered individuals. This exchange of knowledge will be presented as a “scientific event” aimed at participants, specialists, and experts in the field.

In a related statement, Alexander Fedulov, the UNODC representative in Iran, emphasized the organization’s commitment to maintaining close cooperation with Iran. He stated, “The Islamic Republic of Iran is a key and constructive partner in its engagement with the UNODC,” reflecting the strong collaborative relationship between the two entities.

Fedulov made these remarks during a meeting in Tehran with Zolfaqari on February 17. He praised the ongoing cooperation and joint initiatives between the UNODC and the Drug Control Headquarters, describing them as highly positive and commendable. Fedulov reaffirmed his dedication to expanding collaboration and securing additional financial resources to bolster Iran’s drug-related programs.

Moreover, he highlighted Iran’s significant role in regional and international efforts to combat drug trafficking, underscoring the importance of the country in the global fight against drugs.

In response, Zolfaqari emphasized the profound human and financial costs that the Islamic Republic of Iran has faced in its humanitarian struggle against the global drug crisis. He noted the severe and irreparable losses that have resulted from this ongoing battle, highlighting the need for continued international support and cooperation.

The participation of Brigadier General Zolfaqari in the CND represents a critical opportunity for Iran to engage with global partners and share valuable insights regarding effective strategies in drug control. The outcomes of this session are anticipated to influence future policies and collaborative efforts in the realm of narcotics and public health worldwide.

As the CND progresses, the focus will remain on fostering international cooperation and developing comprehensive strategies to address the multifaceted challenges posed by drug trafficking and abuse. The commitment of the UNODC and countries like Iran plays a vital role in shaping a collective response to these pressing issues.