The UNGASS decade in review: Gaps, achievements and paths for reform - IDPC report

Описание: IDPC presents 'The UNGASS decade in review: Gaps, achievements and paths for reform', a flagship publication that assesses the state of play in global drug policy, reflecting on areas of progress while highlighting new and ongoing challenges, and concluding with recommendations for the future of international drug policy.

Background
Adopted as a turning point for global drug policy, the 2016 UN General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) promised a shift towards human rights, public health and evidence-based approaches. As UNGASS marks its 10th anniversary in 2026, this report takes stock of what has changed — and what has not.

Drawing on UN data, academic research, a global civil society survey and the lived experiences of communities affected by drug policies, the report finds that while some progress has been made — including greater recognition of harm reduction and moves towards decriminalisation and legal regulation — punitive approaches still dominate. Drug markets have expanded, mortality and health harms have risen, access to essential medicines remains deeply unequal, and serious human rights violations persist.

The video features reflections from global leaders, civil society advocates and people with lived experience, highlighting why reform is urgent — and possible.

As the UN enters a period of system-wide reform, including the UN80 Initiative and the independent review of the UN drug control system mandated by CND Resolution 68/6, this report sets out four key conclusions and practical recommendations to guide the next decade of drug policy.

Read the full report: http://idpc.net/publications/2026/02/...

Without decisive reform, the global drug control regime will continue to undermine the very principles the United Nations was created to uphold.