IPO DELEGATION AT UN GENEVA 2024

The intersessional discussion on human rights challenges in combating all aspects of the global drug problem was held on 05 February 2024, at the UN Ginevra where the IPO was represented by the President of IPO Section Switzerland Mr. Imet Cafleshi.

The objective of this discussion was to examine issues related to human rights man

in the context of the fight against drugs on a global scale.

The drug problem is a complex challenge that affects many countries around the world.

The fight against drugs raises important questions in terms of human rights, particularly

with regard to access to health care, the rights of addicted people, risk reduction, and

repression policies.

Main points covered during the discussion :

1. Access to health care: Participants highlighted the importance of ensuring equitable

access to health care for people dependent on drugs. This includes access to substitution

treatment, drug treatment services and harm reduction programs.

2. Rights of dependent persons: The rights of dependent persons must be respected and

protected. This includes the right to dignity, privacy, non-discrimination and humane

conditions of detention for people in drug-related incidents.

3. Harm Reduction: Harm reduction policies have been discussed as an effective

approach to minimizing harm related to drug use. This includes the distribution of

sterile equipment, needle exchange programs and the promotion of safer consumption

practices.

4. Policies of repression: Participants discussed policies of repression and their impact

on human rights. It was pointed out that excessive repressive policies lead to

fundamental violations, such as unjust incarceration and police violence.

Recommendations:

In light of the discussions, the following recommendations were made:

1. Promote equitable access to health care for people dependent on drugs, with an

emphasis on substitution treatment and detoxification services.

2. Protect the rights of dependent people by guaranteeing their dignity, their privacy and

by fighting against discrimination.

3. Strengthen harm reduction policies, including the distribution of sterile equipment

and needle exchange programs.

4. Reassess repression policies and ensure that they respect human rights, avoiding

unjust incarceration and police violence.

Conclusion :

The intersessional discussion highlighted the human rights challenges in combating all

aspects of the global drug problem. It is essential to take into account the fundamental

rights of dependent people and to put in place policies that promote health, dignity and

risk reduction.

By following the recommendations made, we can move towards a more

human rights-respecting approach to the fight against drugs globally.

IPO News Room