As the United Nations launched the 2009 World Drug Report on June 24, more than 40 international groups and experts worldwide issued a call to action that presses governments to adopt a humane approach to drug policy.

Rather than receiving treatment, millions of nonviolent drug users are languishing in prisons as a result of current drug policies. The drug trade continues to grow while families are torn apart by the global war on drugs. As the HIV and AIDS crisis spreads, policies that drive away drug users are creating public health disasters.

Instead of continuing with these ineffective and harmful policies, call to action urges governments to focus on reducing the harms of drug trade and use. It is time for governments to support needle exchange, substitution therapy, and decriminalization of possession for personal use. Drug control measures must respect human rights with penalties that are proportional and humane, and recognize that drug cultivation is primarily a development issue—not simply a security threat.

Please download the call to action with full list of signatories.

Add your comment

Your name:
Your email:
Comment:
Word verification:
	Post Preview