Week of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observed:
Islamic Sangh Nepal and IPFN come together for a cause
Kathmandu, July 01-
June 26 is celebrated as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. This year, a week themed “The evidence is clear: invest in prevention” was observed as part of the almost four decade long tradition, calling on all stakeholders from the family, community, nations and international community to fight the growing social 
malaise of drug abuse and human trafficking.
In Nepal, many social and religious entities took on the same, not least IPFN (Interfaith Peace federation-Nepal) and Islamic Sangh Nepal jointly, by holding a symposium on the theme today at the convention hall of Islamic Sangh Nepal, Balkhu, Kathmandu.
Chaired by Maulana Nazarul Hussein the chair of Islamic Sangh Nepal, the programme was attended by faith leaders from Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, Kirat and Muslim religion, as well as social activists and media persons. Ably emceed by ISN central member Azizulla Ansari, IPFN Vice-Chair person Mrs. Seema Khan, a former MP, delivered the welcome speech, followed by addresses by Kirat, Buddhist, Christian, Muslim, and Hindu religious leaders and/or representatives. All emphasized the fact that drug abuse, alcoholism and gambling is its morally, religiously and ethically untenable; that such sinful and harmful practices must be eliminated.
A slight difference of emphasis was palpable to the observant eye and sensitive ears, as some faith outright designate any beverage as “haram”, while others use beverages as a must for ritual offering, while still others are pragmatic, neither needing ritually nor prohibiting. That said, any kind of addiction, drug abuse and gambling was unconditionally condemned by all the speakers.
Brief History and Background
By resolution 42/112 of 7 December 1987, the UN 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.
The evidence is clear: invest in prevention
The global drug problem presents a multifaceted challenge that touches the lives of millions worldwide. From individuals struggling with substance use disorders to communities grappling with the consequences of drug trafficking and organized crime, the impact of drugs is far-reaching and complex. Central to addressing this challenge is the imperative to adopt a scientific evidence-based approach that prioritizes prevention and treatment.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, or World Drug Day, is marked on 26 June every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse. This year’s World Drug Day campaign recognizes that effective drug policies must be rooted in science, research, full respect for human rights, compassion, and a deep understanding of the social, economic, and health implications of drug use.
Together, let us amplify our efforts to combat the global drug problem, guided by the principles of science, compassion, and solidarity. Through collective action and a commitment to evidence-based solutions, we can create a world where individuals are empowered to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
According to the UNODC, nearly 200 million people are using illicit drugs such as cocaine, cannabis, hallucinogens, opiates and sedative hypnotics worldwide. In December 1987 the UN General Assembly decided to observe June 26 as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The UN was determined to help create an international society free of drug abuse. This resolution recommended further action with regard to the report and conclusions of the 1987 International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Following the resolution, the years 1991 to 2000 were heralded as the “United Nations Decade Against Drug Abuse”. In 1998 the UN General Assembly adopted a political declaration to address the global drug problem. The declaration expresses UN members’ commitment to fighting the problem.
