2019 Theme – ‘health for justice, justice for health’
Participation and empowerment of women: UNODC Alternative Development Project in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Photo: UNODC”I welcome the theme of this International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking – ‘health for justice, justice for health’ – underlining the importance of a holistic approach involving health, human rights, criminal justice and social service institutions.” — UN Secretary-General, António Guterres
By resolution 42/112 of 7 December 1987, the General Assembly decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse.
Supported each year by individuals, communities and various organizations all over the world, this global observance aims to raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represent to society.
Health for Justice. Justice for Health
This year’s theme highlights that justice and health are two sides of the same coin when it comes to addressing drug problems.
Effective responses to the world drug problem require inclusive and accountable institutions of criminal justice, health and social services to work hand in hand to provide integrated solutions, in line with the international drug control conventions, human rights obligations and the Sustainable Development Goals.
UNODC encourages individuals, non-profit organizations, the private sector and Member States to get involved in its social media campaign to mark this day and invites them to draw on the resources provided in the social media campaign package.
UNODC New York Launch of the 2019 World Drug Report
Wednesday, 26 June (10:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.)
CR-1, United Nations Secretariat, NY
Invitation & instructions for RSVP*
* Please note that this event is limited to those holding a valid UN Grounds Pass.
Why Do We Mark International Days?
International days are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. The existence of international days predates the establishment of the United Nations, but the UN has embraced them as a powerful advocacy tool. More information available here.
