INCB Activities

INCB Mission to Ethiopia

An INCB mission visited Ethiopia from 26 to 28 March 2008.  The mission was conducted by Professor Tatyana Borisovna Dmitrieva, Second Vice-President of the Board and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Estimates, accompanied by Mr. Pavel Pachta, Deputy Secretary of the Board.

The mission held discussions with the Minister of Health, the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Federal Affairs as well as with senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Drug Administration and Control Authority (DACA), the Federal Police Commission and the Customs Authority. The discussions focused on issues related to the Government's cooperation with INCB regarding the control of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors, measures to combat drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking and the availability of narcotic drugs for the treatment of pain.

The mission also visited the customs unit at the Addis Ababa airport and two treatment centers for drug addicts, and met with representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the next INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2009.

INCB Mission to the United Arab Emirates

An INCB mission visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 21 to 25 January 2008. The mission was conducted by Professor Sevil Atasoy and Mr. Raymond Yans, Board members, accompanied by Mr. Rossen Popov from the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with the Director General for Criminal Security and other senior officials of the Ministries of Interior, Health, Justice and Foreign Affairs in Abu Dhabi. The INCB delegation visited the Customs, Port and Free Zone Authorities in Dubai and Sharjah. The mission held discussions with the authorities on issues related to the Government's cooperation with INCB regarding the control of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors, and the abuse of and trafficking in such substances in the country.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the next INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2009.

INCB Mission to Albania

An INCB mission visited Albania from 31 October to 02 November 2007.  The mission was conducted by Ambassador Melvyn Levitsky, member of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Adrian Moicean, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with the Minister of Health, the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Deputy Minster of Justice as well as with senior officials of ministries and government agencies involved in drug control in Albania. The mission also met with representatives of the Mini Dublin Group and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and visited Community Emanuel Albania, the sole non-governmental organization providing treatment services for drug addicts in the country.

The mission discussed with the Government measures necessary for the full implementation of the international drug control Conventions, including reporting to and cooperation with INCB in accordance with the Conventions, implementation of the National Anti-Drug Strategy 2004-2010, strengthening of administrative and legal structures responsible for drug control, measures to combat drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, the availability of narcotic drugs for the adequate management of pain, data collection on production, trafficking and abuse of drugs as well as the need for provision of training to the competent authorities.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the next INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to the United Kingdom

An INCB mission visited the United Kingdom from 22 to 24 October 2007.  The mission was conducted by Professor Tatyana Borisovna Dmitrieva, Second Vice-President of the Board and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Estimates, accompanied by Mr. Pavel Pachta, Deputy Secretary of the Board.

The mission held discussions with the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Crime Reduction as well as with senior officials of the Home Office, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, the Ministry of Justice and HM Revenue & Customs. The mission also visited the National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse (NTA) and the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA). The discussions focused on the policies of the Government of the United Kingdom in respect of drug control, including cooperation with INCB on issues regarding the maintenance of a global balance between the licit supply and demand of opiate raw materials and reporting to INCB under the international drug control treaties.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the next INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Viet Nam

An INCB mission visited Viet Nam from 03 to 05 October 2007 and consisted of the First Vice President of the Board, Major Brian Watters and Board Member, Dr. Camilo Uribe Granja, accompanied by Ms. Midori Kanda of the INCB secretariat.

The mission met with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Viet Nam Country Office and the World Health Organization (WHO).  The mission also visited a treatment and rehabilitation center.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming annual report of the International Narcotics Control Board, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Republic of Korea

An INCB mission visited the Republic of Korea from 10 to 12 October 2007. The mission consisted of Major Brian Watters, First Vice-President of the Board, and Dr. Sri Suryawati, Board member, accompanied by Ms. Beate Hammond, Drug Control Officer of the INCB secretariat.

The mission held discussions with the Commissioner of the Korean Food and Drug Administration as well as with other senior Government officials from the Supreme Prosecutor's Office, Customs Services, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the  National Police Agency. In addition, the mission met with representatives of the Korean Association against Drug Abuse and visited institutions where drug abusers are treated and rehabilitated.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming annual report of the International Narcotics Control Board, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Bolivia

A high level delegation of the Board consisting of Professor Hamid Ghodse, Immediate Past President and Member of the Board, Professor Maria Elena Medina-Mora, Member of the Board and Mr. Koli Kouame, Secretary of the Board visited Bolivia from 10 to 12 September 2007.

The delegation held discussions with the Minister of External Relations as well as Ministers and Vice-Ministers responsible for drug control in Bolivia, including the Ministers of Agriculture, Agro-forestry and Environment, Minister of Justice, Minister of Health and Minister of Interior.  The discussion focused on the policies of the Government of Bolivia in respect of drug control. The visit provided the delegation the opportunity of observing in the Chapare region the way that the Bolivian Government is implementing its new policy on rationalization and social control of coca.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the 2007 Annual Report of the International Narcotics Control Board, which will be published in early 2008.

INCB technical visit to Haiti

An INCB technical visit to Haiti took place from 27 to 29 June 2007 and was conducted by Mr. Adrian Moicean, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. The visit examined the drug control situation in the country and provided training on reporting to INCB.

Discussions were held with the Minister for Justice, the Director-General of Customs and officials from the Ministry of National Education, Ministry of Public Health, National Police, Judiciary Police as well as the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH). The objectives of the technical visit were to evaluate the degree of implementation of the international drug control conventions and to discuss with the Government various issues including the legislative basis, structure and distribution of drug control functions among competent authorities involved, trends in drug trafficking and abuse, treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicts and measures taken to address these drug control issues. In addition, technical training on reporting to and cooperation with the INCB was provided to officials from competent authorities responsible for different aspects of drug control.
 
The findings of the technical visit will be reflected in the forthcoming annual report of the Board, to be published in early 2008.

Training seminar in Beijing

A training seminar, which was organized by the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) in cooperation with the Government of China at the request of the Government of the People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), took place from 26 to 30 June 2007 in Beijing. Participants in the seminar were Government officials from various ministries involved in drug control in DPRK.

The training seminar, the first of its kind, aimed at facilitating implementation by the Government of DPRK of the provisions of the international drug control treaties, to which DPRK acceded in 2007. The seminar covered both national and international aspects of drug control, with a focus on Governments' obligations under the international drug control treaties.

Officials from the Office of China's National Narcotics Control Commission (NNCC) and other relevant ministries participated as resource persons briefing on various areas of drug control in China, particularly on the Government's measures for the implementation of the international drug control treaties and its cooperation with the Board. A staff member from the INCB secretariat provided the participants with an overall perspective of the functioning of the international drug control system, highlighting the importance of universal application of the international drug control treaties.

The Board encourages the Government of DPRK to continue its efforts and take necessary steps towards its full compliance with the international drug control treaties.

INCB Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina

An INCB mission visited Bosnia and Herzegovina from 11 to 13 June 2007.  The mission was conducted by Dr. Carola Lander, member of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Rossen Popov of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of state ministries and government agencies involved in drug control of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as with competent authorities from the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republika Srpska and the District of Brcko. The mission also had a joint meeting involving all government agencies responsible for drug control in the country.

The mission discussed with the Government measures necessary for the full implementation of the international drug control Conventions by Bosnia and Herzegovina, including reporting to INCB in accordance with the treaties. Subjects discussed by the mission and the Government also touched upon the implementation of the new drug legislation adopted by the country in 2006, data collection on drug abuse, the preparation of a comprehensive drug control strategy, the strengthening of administrative structures responsible for drug control, as well as the need for training of competent authorities.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the next INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Liberia

An INCB mission visited Liberia from 27 to 30 March 2007. The mission was conducted by Dr. Joseph Bediako Asare, member of the Board, accompanied by Ms. Beate Hammond, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. This was the first time that an INCB mission visited that country.

The mission met the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister for Health and Social Welfare and the Solicitor-General of Liberia as well as senior officials of ministries and government agencies involved in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

In addition, the mission visited the John F. Kennedy Hospital in Monrovia as well as the Grant memorial hospital. The mission also held meetings with representatives from the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) as well as the Ambassador of the United States to the Republic of Liberia.

Ratification of the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, reporting to and cooperation with INCB, the extent of drug abuse and drug trafficking, the availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain and the fight against illicit cultivation of cannabis were among the issues discussed by the mission with the Government.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the next INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Nepal

An INCB mission visited Nepal from 02 to 05 March 2007. The mission was conducted by Prof. Dr. Sevil Atasoy, Second Vice Chairperson of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Saul Takahashi, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met the Minister of Home Affairs, as well as with senior officials of ministries and government agencies involved in drug control in Nepal. The mission also visited the forensic laboratory operated by the Nepal Police, met with representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and with numerous Nepalese non governmental organizations working in the fields of treatment for, and prevention of, drug abuse.

The mission discussed drug control issues with the Government of Nepal, including strengthening of administrative and legal structures to combat drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, the eradication of illicit cannabis cultivation in the country, and the availability of narcotic drugs for the appropriate  management of pain.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the next INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Bhutan

An INCB mission visited Bhutan from 26 February to 01 March 2007. The mission was conducted by Prof. Dr. Sevil Atasoy, Second Vice Chairperson of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Saul Takahashi, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. This was the first time that an INCB mission visited that country.

The mission met the Minister of Health, the Minister of Education, and the Chief Justice of Bhutan, as well as with senior officials of ministries and government agencies involved in drug control in Bhutan. The mission also visited Jime Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimpu, met with representatives from the World Health Organization and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and visited Rewa (which means "hope" in Bhutanese), the sole non governmental organization providing treatment services for drug addicts in the country.

The mission discussed drug control issues with the Government of Bhutan, including reporting to and cooperation with INCB, strengthening of administrative and legal structures to combat drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, and the availability of narcotic drugs for the appropriate management of pain.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the next INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Congo (Brazzaville)

A mission of INCB visited the Republic of Congo from 6 to 9 February 2007. The mission was conducted by Dr. Joseph Bediako Asare, member of the Board, accompanied by Ms. Eva Fernandez Santis, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. This was the first time that an INCB mission visited that country.

The mission met with the Minister for Security and Public Order, as well as senior officials of ministries and government agencies involved in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The mission also visited the Maya-Maya international airport of Brazzaville, the Congo River Special Checkpoint, the Brazzaville Psychiatric Service and the Centre d'Etudes sur les Ressources Vegetales (CERVE) research centre, and met with several non-governmental organizations involved in providing counselling for persons with drug abuse problems. The mission also had meetings with the High Commissioner for Ex-Combatants and the Representatives of UNICEF and WHO in Congo.

Reporting to and cooperation with INCB, changes in drug control legislation and administrative regulations governing the system of national control, the extent of drug abuse and drug trafficking, the availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain and the fight against illicit cultivation of cannabis were among the issues discussed by the mission with the Government.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the next INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2008.

World Health Organization (WHO): 120th session of the Executive Board

The President of the Board, Dr. Philip O. Emafo, accompanied by Ms. Carmen Selva-Elizalde, Chief of the Psychotropics Control Section of the INCB secretariat, participated in the 120th session of the Executive Board of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland, from 22 to 27 January 2007.  On 25 January 2007, the President made a statement under item 4.9 of the agenda "Progress report on the rational use of drugs".  The President also had a short meeting with the newly appointed Director-General of WHO, Dr. Margaret Chan, on 23 January 2007. Issues discussed included the availability of internatinally controlled substances for the management of pain, prevention of diversion of substances used for the treatment of addiction, illicit sales of medicines containing internationally controlled substances on the Internet and the supply of counterfeit drugs.

INCB Mission to Brazil

An INCB mission, led by its President Dr. Philip Emafo, visited Brazil from 11 to 15 December 2006. The mission examined the changes of the drug control situation in the country since the last INCB mission in 2003 and also included Dr. Camilo Uribe Granja, member of the Board, Mr. Koli Kouame, Secretary of INCB, accompanied by Ms. Margarethe Ehrenfeldner, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Brazilian Government, including the Minister of Health, the Under-Secretary-General for South America of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Vice Minister of Justice, and other officials from agencies involved in drug control, for instance the National Anti-Drug Secretariat (SENAD), the regulatory authority for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (ANVISA), law enforcement authorities as well as the Customs Directorate.

Subjects discussed by the mission and the Government touched upon all issues related to the implementation of the provisions of the international drug control treaties by Brazil, such as the illicit trafficking of drugs and precursors in the country, the drug abuse situation, control over the trade and distribution of pharmaceuticals and precursors to prevent their diversion into illicit channels and other measures to counter illicit activities related to drugs.

More information regarding the findings of the mission will be included in the INCB Annual Report for 2007, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Peru

An INCB mission, led by its President Dr. Philip Emafo, visited Peru from 5 to 7 December 2006. The mission examined the changes of the drug control situation in the country since the last INCB mission in 2003 and also included Dr. Camilo Uribe Granja, member of INCB, Mr. Koli Kouame, Secretary of INCB, accompanied by Ms. Margarethe Ehrenfeldner, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Peruvian Government, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Vice Minister of Industry, the Attorney-General of Peru, Justice, the Executive President of the National Anti-Drug Commission (DEVIDA), and other officials from agencies involved in drug control, for instance the regulatory authority for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (DIGEMID), law enforcement authorities as well as the Customs Directorate, and visited non-governmental organizations specializing in prevention and treatment of drug abuse. The mission also visited the Empresa Nacional de la Coca (ENACO).

Subjects discussed by the mission and the Government touched upon all issues related to the implementation of the provisions of the international drug control treaties by Peru, such as the production and use of coca leaf in Peru, illicit trafficking of drugs and precursors in the country, the drug abuse situation, control over the trade and distribution of pharmaceuticals and precursors to prevent their diversion into illicit channels and other measures to counter illicit activities related to drugs.

More information regarding the findings of the mission will be included in the INCB Annual Report for 2007, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Lithuania

An INCB mission visited Lithuania from 20 to 22 November 2006 to examine the drug control situation in the country. The mission was conducted by Dr. G. Gerra, member of the Board, accompanied by Ms. Gisela Wieser-Herbeck, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. The last INCB mission to Lithuania took place in 1996.

The mission met with the Parliamentary Commission for Prevention of Drug Addiction and the Drug Control Department of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania; with senior officials of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior, Health, Justice and Education and Science and of other regulatory and law enforcement authorities involved in drug control; and with representatives of non-governmental organizations active in the field of drug demand prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. The main issues discussed by the mission included the extent of drug abuse and drug trafficking, current drug control legislation and administrative regulations governing the system of national control, prevention and treatment of drug abuse and availability of opioids for the treatment of pain. The mission also discussed technical questions of cooperation between the Board and drug control authorities in Lithuania.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the Annual Report of the Board for 2007, to be published in early 2008.

INCB Mission to Myanmar

An INCB mission visited the Union of Myanmar from 16 to 20 October 2006 to examine the drug control situation in the country and the measures taken since the Board's previous mission in 2001. The mission was conducted by Mr. M.M. Bhatnagar and Major B. Watters, members of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Adrian Moicean, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Home Affairs, Health, Education, Ministry of Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs as well as with the Deputy Attorney General and the Deputy Director General of the Customs Department. The mission also visited the UNODC Country Office in Yangon. Among the issues discussed with the Government officials were: the current situation regarding production, trafficking and the extent of abuse of illicit drugs; the control of narcotics, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals; the availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain; and current drug control legislation as well as the administrative regulations governing the system of national control. The mission also discussed technical questions of cooperation between the Board and drug control authorities in Myanmar, as well as requirements for national cooperation and training.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2007.

World Health Organization (WHO) 56th Regional Committee for Africa

28 August 2006 - The Secretary of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), Mr. Koli Kouame, represented the Board at the World Health Organization (WHO) 56th Regional Committee for Africa, which was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from 28 August to 1 September 2006. Mr. Kouame delivered the statement of the President of the Board to the Committee on medicine's regulatory authorities in Africa. INCB and WHO Regional Office for Africa are set to cooperate in order to strengthen drug control in Africa.

The meeting was attended by Ministers of Health of 46 African countries and was opened by the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Mr. Meles Zenawi, in the presence of the President of the African Union Commission, Prof. Alpha Konare and the UN Special Envoy to Stop TB, Mr. Jorge Sampaio. The representatives of UNICEF, UNAIDS, the World Bank and the African Development Bank also attended the meeting. Mr. Kouame held bilateral discussions with the Ministers of Health of Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria and South Africa, as well as the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Luis Sambo.

INCB Mission to El Salvador

An INCB mission visited El Salvador from 23 to 25 August 2006. The mission was conducted by Dr. Elisaldo Carlini member of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Cristian Gimenez Corte, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The objectives of the Mission were to analyse the degree of implementation of the international drug control conventions and to discuss with the Government the national drug control policy. The Mission also reviewed trends in abuse as well as in illicit trafficking, and the measures taken to prevent and combat illicit trafficking and abuse. The mission met the senior officials of the government entities involved in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming annual report of the Board, to be published in early 2007.

INCB Mission to Malawi

16 August 2006 - INCB mission visited the Republic of Malawi from 14 to 16 August 2006. The mission was conducted by Dr. Joseph Bediako Asare, member of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Imrich Betko, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. The last mission to Malawi took place in 1996.

The mission met with senior officials of the Malawi Government, including the Minister of Health, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security and other officials of ministries and government entities involved in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The mission also visited the Pharmacy Medicines and Poisons Board, Zomba Mental Hospital, Zomba Central Hospital and the non-governmental organization Yoneco involved in providing counseling for persons with drug abuse problems. The mission also had meetings with the Resident Coordinator of UNDP and WHO in Malawi.

Reporting to and cooperation with the INCB, changes in drug control legislation and administrative regulations governing the system of national control, the extent of drug abuse and drug trafficking, the availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain, were among the issues discussed by the mission with the Government.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2007.

2006 Substantive Session of the Economic and Social Council

27 July 2006 - Dr. Philip O. Emafo, President of INCB accompanied by Mr. Koli Kouame, Secretary of the Board, attended the Substantive Session of the ECOSOC in Geneva, Switzerland. In a statement  to the ECOSOC on 27 July 2006, the President of the Board introduced the INCB Report for 2005. Following a general discussion, ECOSOC formally adopted the INCB Report for 2005 .

INCB Mission to Belarus

30 May 2006 - INCB mission visited the Republic of Belarus from 30 May to 1 June 2006, to examine the drug control situation in the country and the measures taken since the Board's previous mission in May 1994. The mission was conducted by Dr. Robert J.J. Ch. Lousberg, First Vice-President of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Darmen Zhumadil, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Government of Belarus, including the First Deputy Ministers of the Ministries of Interior, Justice, Health, and Education; the Secretary of the Inter-Governmental Commission on Crime, Corruption and Drugs; and other senior officials of the regulatory and law enforcement agencies involved in drug control.  The mission also visited the National Center for Forensic Analysis of the Ministry of Interior and had meetings with the Resident Representatives of UNDP, WHO, UNICEF and UNAIDS in Belarus.

The mission discussed various issues including the changes in legislation, structure and distribution of drug control functions among competent authorities involved, the availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain, the trends in trafficking and abuse of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, measures and national policies/strategies to address these issues, treatment and rehabilitation of drug dependent persons and prevention programs, precursor control, measures against money laundering, regional and international cooperation, and reporting and cooperation with the INCB.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2007.

INCB Mission to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK)

A mission of INCB visited the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) from 28 to 30 June 2006. The mission was conducted by Prof. Hamid Ghodse, former President of INCB, accompanied by Mr. Koli Kouame, Secretary of the Board, and Ms. Li-Qin Zhu, Chief of the Convention Evaluation Section of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with high-level Government officials from various ministries responsible for drug control in DPRK, including the Vice-President of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly; the Minister for Public Health; the Vice-Ministers for Foreign Affairs, Public Health, Public Security and Education; the Secretary-General of the National Coordinating Committee for Narcotics Control (NCC); and the Director of Legislation Department of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly. The mission also met representatives of UNDP, WHO and UNICEF.

The mission reviewed the drug control situation in DPRK, the Government's responsibilities towards and compliance with the provisions of the international drug control treaties, as well as progress made by the Government of DPRK in the implementation of the Board's recommendations following its 2002 mission to DPRK.

The findings of the mission, which will be reviewed by the Board at its forthcoming session in November 2006, will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2007.

INCB Mission to Latvia

29 May 2006 - INCB visited Latvia from 29-30 May 2006. The mission was conducted by Prof. Sevil Atasoy, Second Vice-President of the Board and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Estimates, accompanied by Ms. Gisela Wieser-Herbeck, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. The last mission to Latvia took place in 1996.

The mission met with the Prime Minister of Latvia, the Minister for Interior, the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Education and Science and the Minister of Regional Development and Local Government as well as with senior officials in ministries or other government entities involved in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The mission also visited the State Addiction Agency of Latvia.

The main issues discussed included new developments and trends in drug abuse and illicit trafficking in Latvia and in the region, legislative and administrative measures as well as policies by the Government to address the situation. The Government's activities and achievements in drug control, particularly the implementation of the State Programme on Drug Abuse, and Latvia's role in regional and international drug control efforts were also discussed.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2007

INCB Mission to Estonia

25 May 2006 - INCB visited Estonia from 25 to 26 May 2006, to examine the drug control situation in the country. The mission was conducted by Prof. Sevil Atasoy, second Vice President of the Board and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Estimates, accompanied by Ms. Gisela Wieser-Herbeck, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. The last mission to Estonia took place in 1996.

The mission met with senior officials of the Ministries of the Interior, Social Affairs, Justice, Finance, Foreign Affairs, as well as the State Agency of Medicines. The mission also visited the WHO Country Office in Estonia.

The availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain, the extent of drug abuse and drug trafficking, current drug control legislation as well as the administrative regulations governing the system of national control are among the issues discussed by the mission with the Government. The mission also discussed technical questions of cooperation between Estonian authorities and the Board as well as requirements for national cooperation and training.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2007.

INCB mission to The Gambia

An INCB mission visited The Gambia from 24 to 26 May 2006. The mission was conducted by Dr. Joseph Bediako Asare, member of the Board, accompanied by Ms. Eva Fernandez Santis, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The objective of the mission was to discuss with the authorities legislative and administrative measures as well as policies aimed at strengthening control for narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and the chemicals used in their illicit manufacture. The mission also reviewed action taken by the Government to address illicit trafficking of drugs, particularly cocaine, through the West African region, and efforts to prevent drug abuse and treat drug abusers.

The mission met the Minister for the Interior and the Minister for Justice, as well as other senior officials in ministries or other government entities involved in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The mission also paid visits to the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital and the Banjul Port Authority.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming annual report of the Board, to be published in early 2007.

World Health Assembly

22 May 2006 - The President of the Board, Dr. Philip O. Emafo, accompanied by Ms. Midori Kanda of the INCB secretariat, attended the World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland from 22 to 27 May 2006. On Thursday, 25 May 2006, the President made a statement under item 11.3 "HIV/AIDS - WHO's contribution to universal access to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care". In addition, the President of the Board took the opportunity of the World Health Assembly to meet with some delegations to the Assembly

INCB Mission to Argentina

22 May 2006 - INCB visited Argentina from 22 to 24 May 2006, to examine the changes of the drug control situation in the country since the last INCB mission, in 1998.  The mission was conducted by Mr. M.M. Bhatnagar and Dr. C. Uribe Granja, members of INCB, accompanied by Ms. Margarethe Ehrenfeldner, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Argentinean Government, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Interior, the Vice Minister of Justice and Human Rights, and other officials from agencies involved in drug control, for instance the National Anti-Drug Secretariat (SEDRONAR), the regulatory authority for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (ANMAT), law enforcement authorities as well as the Customs Directorate.

Issues discussed by the mission and the Government touched upon all issues related to the implementation of the provisions of the international drug control treaties by Argentina, such as the illicit trafficking of drugs and precursors in the country, the drug abuse situation, control over the trade and distribution of pharmaceuticals and precursors to prevent their diversion into illicit channels and other measures to counter illicit activities related to drugs. 

More information regarding the findings of the mission will be included in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2007.

The President of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Addresses the Board

19 May 2006 - At the invitation of the INCB President, Dr. Philip O. Emafo, the President of ECOSOC addressed the Board during the 86th Session of the Board, which was held from 8-19 May 2006.

The President of ECOSOC informed the Board that ECOSOC, as the guardian of INCB elected seven new INCB Board members on 10 May 2006. He praised the work of the Board, referring to the outstanding analysis of alternative development and legitimate livelihoods presented in the 2005 Annual Report of the Board. He said the issue of alternative development was relevant to the theme for the 2006 High-level segment of ECOSOC's substantive session "Creating an environment at the national and international levels conducive to generating full and productive employment and decent work for all, and its impact on sustainable development". He promised to encourage his successor to sustain the excellent cooperation between ECOSOC and the Board. He invited the President of the Board to attend the above segment of ECOSOC's meeting in July 2006 in Geneva.

Dr. Emafo thanked the President of ECOSOC for exchanging views with the Board on various drug control issues and stated that he looked forward to similar exchanges in the future.

President of the General Assembly addresses the INCB

8 May 2006 - At the invitation of the INCB President, Professor H. Ghodse, the President of the General Assembly, H. E. Mr. Jan Eliasson, addressed the Board during the 86th Session of the Board, which opened on Monday, 8 May 2006.

In his address by video link, Mr. Eliasson commended the INCB for its contributions to international drug control.  He remarked that the world narcotic drug problem is a main global challenge requiring a global response, and that this was also recognized by the world leaders at the World Summit 2005. He underlined the need for the international community to mobilize all efforts to eliminate both the illicit supply of and demand for illicit drugs.

Professor Ghodse thanked Mr. Eliasson for the exchange with the INCB, and described it as a historic moment in the relations between the Board and the General Assembly.  He expressed appreciation for the excellent support the Board has enjoyed during Mr. Eliasson's term as President of the General Assembly.

INCB Briefing at ECOSOC

19 April 2006 - The President of INCB, Professor H. Ghodse, provided a briefing to the members of Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and other Permanent Missions at a meeting in the ECOSOC Chamber chaired by the Chairman of ECOSOC. The President provided information on the Board, its role and rules of procedure, its recently released Annual Report, as well as current major drug problems of concern to the Board.

INCB Mission to Djibouti

INCB visited Djibouti from 21 to 23 January 2006. The mission was conducted by Dr Joseph Bediako Asare, member of INCB, accompanied by Ms Hanifa Rebbani, Drug Control Officer of the Secretariat. It was the first ever Board's mission to Djibouti.

The mission met with the Minister of Interior, Minister of Youth, Sports, Leisure and Tourism as well as the Attorney-General of Djibouti. The mission also met with senior officials of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Health, and Justice. At the technical level, the mission held meetings and discussions with the Pharmaceutical inspection, the Police and Customs authorities.  The mission also met representatives of WHO and UNDP.

The issues discussed included the national drug control strategy, the legislation and structure of drug control functions and coordination among competent authorities involved.  The mission also discussed the availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain, the trends in drug trafficking and abuse, measures and national policies to address these issues, treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicts, regional and international cooperation, reporting and cooperation with INCB.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2007.

INCB Mission to Yemen

A mission of INCB visited Yemen from 16 to 18 January 2006. This first ever Board mission to Yemen was conducted by Dr Joseph Bediako Asare, member of INCB, accompanied by Ms. Hanifa Rebbani, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Yemeni Government, including the Attorney General, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Interior, the General Directorate for Drug Control, the Supreme Board of Drugs and Medical Appliances, as well as the Customs authorities. The mission also met representatives of WHO and UNDP.

The mission discussed various issues including the national drug control strategy, legislative and administrative measures as well as policies aimed at strengthening control for narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and the chemicals used in their illicit manufacture. The mission also reviewed action taken by the Government to address drug trafficking efforts and to prevent drug abuse and treat drug abusers as well as regional and international cooperation.

The mission also visited Sana'a hospital and the Oncology centre for cancer detection, diagnosis and treatment.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2007.

Visit of INCB President to China

Professor Hamid Ghodse, President of INCB, visited the People's Republic of China from 9 to 10 January 2006, to exchange views on issues related to international drug control, as well as measures taken by the Government in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The President was accompanied by Mr. Koli Kouame, Secretary of INCB, and Mrs. Li-Qin Zhu, Chief of the Convention Evaluation Section of the INCB Secretariat.

During the visit, the President met with senior officials of the Chinese Government, including the Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Vice Commissioner of the National Narcotics Control Commission (NNCC) and the Vice-Minister of Public Security, the Vice Commissioner of the State and Food Administration (SFDA), and the Director General of Health Administration of the Ministry of Health. The President also visited the National Institute on Drug Dependence, Beijing University.

The main issues discussed between the President and the Government of China included new developments and trends in drug abuse and illicit trafficking in China and in the region, legislative and administrative measures as well as policies by the Government to address the situation. The Government's activities and achievements in various areas of drug control, and China's role in drug control at the regional and international level were also discussed.

INCB Mission to Saudi Arabia

INCB visited Saudi Arabia from 27 to 29 September 2005, to examine the drug control situation in the country and the measures taken since the Board's previous mission in 1992. The mission was conducted by Prof. Dr. Sevil Atasoy, Member of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Darmen Zhumadil, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Saudi Government, including the Director of General Administration of Narcotics Control, the Director of the Drug Control of the Border Guard Services, the Directors of Psychiatric Health and of Import Licensing of the Ministry of Health, the Legal Councillors of the Youth Welfare Headquarters, Director of Psychological Guidance of the Ministry of Education, the Councillors of the Ministry of Justice, the Chief Inspector of the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency, and Police and Customs authorities.  The mission also visited the Central Forensic Laboratory of the Ministry of Health.

The mission discussed various issues including the changes in legislative basis, structure and distribution of drug control functions among competent authorities involved, the availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain, the trends in trafficking and abuse of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, measures and national policies to address these issues, treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicts, precursor control, regional and international cooperation, and reporting and cooperation with the INCB.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2006.

INCB mission to Cape Verde

An INCB mission visited Cape Verde from 26 to 29 September 2005. The mission was conducted by Dr. Rainer Wolfgang Schmid, Second Vice-President of the Board, accompanied by Ms. Beate Hammond, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. It was the first Board mission to Cape Verde.

The objective of the mission was to discuss with the authorities legislative and administrative measures as well as policies aimed at strengthening control for narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and the chemicals used in their illicit manufacture. The mission also reviewed action taken by the Government to address illicit trafficking of cocaine through the islands and efforts to prevent drug abuse and treat drug abusers.

The mission met the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister for Justice, the Minister for Health as well as the Attorney-General of Cape Verde and other senior officials in ministries or other government entities involved in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming annual report of the Board, to be published early 2006.

INCB Mission to Zambia

INCB visited Zambia from 15 to 18 August 2005, to examine the drug control situation in the country. The mission was conducted by Dr. Philip O. Emafo, First Vice President of the Board, accompanied by Ms. Midori Kanda, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. The last mission to Zambia took place in 1996.

The mission met with the Minister of Home Affairs, the Minister of Finance and National Planning, as well as senior officials of the Ministries of Health, Justice, Foreign Affairs, and Police and Customs authorities. The mission visited the Chainama Hill Hospital, which provides treatment, psychotherapy and counselling for drug-dependent patients. The mission also held discussions with Prisons Care and Counselling Association (PRISCCA), an NGO involved in rehabilitating prisons and prisoners.

The mission discussed issues including the availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain, the illicit cultivation of cannabis, drugs of abuse, current drug control legislation and plans for introducing precursor control legislation.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2006.

INCB Mission to Swaziland

INCB visited Swaziland from 11 to 12 August 2005, to examine the drug control situation in the country. The mission was conducted by Dr. Philip O. Emafo, First Vice President of the Board, accompanied by Ms. Midori Kanda, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. The last mission to Swaziland took place in 1985.

The mission met with senior officials of the Ministries of Health and Social Welfare, Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Finance, Foreign Affairs, as well as the Commissioners of Police and Customs. The mission also visited the Manzini National Psychiatric Hospital, which provides treatment, psychotherapy and counselling for drug-dependent patients.

The availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain, the illicit cultivation of cannabis, drugs of abuse, current drug control legislation and plans for strengthening anti-money laundering legislation and introducing precursor control legislation are among the issues discussed by the mission with the Government.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2006.

INCB Mission to Lesotho

INCB visited Lesotho from 8 to 9 August 2005, to examine the drug control situation in the country. The mission was conducted by Dr. Philip O. Emafo, First Vice President of the Board, accompanied by Ms. Midori Kanda, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. This is the first Board mission to Lesotho.

The mission met with senior officials of the Lesotho Government, including the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, the Minister of Finance and Development Planning, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Police and Customs. The mission also visited the Thaba Bosiu specialized drug abuse and treatment centre.

Issues discussed by the mission included the role of the Lesotho Narcotics Bureau in drug control, the availability of narcotic drugs for treatment of pain, the illicit cultivation of cannabis, drugs of abuse, current drug control legislation and plans for introducing precursor control legislation.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2006.

International precursor control workshop held in Kenya 

For the first time ever in Africa, an international workshop dealing exclusively with precursor control issues was held in Mombasa, Kenya, from 12 to 15 July 2005. Organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Regional Office for East Africa in cooperation with INCB, and hosted by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of the Ministry of Health of Kenya, the "Regional stakeholders' awareness workshop on precursor chemicals" brought together key representatives of the national regulatory authorities, the anti-narcotics police and customs authorities of Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Rwanda, Seychelles, Uganda and Tanzania, as well as representatives of East African trade and industry, to address the inadequate controls over precursors in Eastern Africa and elaborate measures to prevent their diversion. Mauritius and Somalia, which had  also been invited, were unable to attend. More information ( PDF - DOC)

Substantive session of Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)

On Thursday, 21 July 2005, Professor Hamid Ghodse, President of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), addressed the substantive session of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) highlighting, inter alia, the worrisome drug control situation in Afghanistan.

"The unlimited and uncontrolled availability of drugs has contributed to a significant rise of drug abuse in the country with increasing use of injection as the mode of administration. Opium poppy cultivation overshadows legal forms of agricultural production and the illicit drug industry fuels widespread corruption," the President said. "The drug control situation in Afghanistan, poses a severe threat to national security with the potential of even endangering the country's political transition," he added.  As a direct result of the situation in Afghanistan, some 20,000 young people die prematurely every year.

INCB has invoked article 14 of the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs with respect to Afghanistan, a powerful provision of that Convention which could lead to the imposition of official sanctions against that nation if or when it becomes necessary.  "Article 14 will remain invoked until there is a marked improvement", the President said.   

Emphasizing that the international community has an important role to assist the Government of Afghanistan in its efforts, the President expressed support for the draft resolution on Afghanistan which was adopted by ECOSOC and calls for the international community to provide support to Afghanistan with a view to ensuring effective implementation of its Counter-Narcotic Implementation Plan.

Taking advantage of his presence in New York, the President also met the Permanent Representatives or Chargés d'affaires of some of the countries that are not yet parties to one or more of the international drug control treaties (Andorra, Bhutan, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Timor Leste and Tuvalu) to discuss accession to the international drug control treaties.

"Accession of all countries to these treaties and full implementation of their provisions is a prerequisite for effective drug control worldwide," the President said.

Further meetings were held with Ambassador Jan Eliasson, President elect of the General Assembly and ECOSOC President, Ambassador Munir Akram of Pakistan. The President also conferred with Ibrahim A. Gambari, the recently appointed Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs and Under-Secretary-General Mr. Mark Malloch Brown, Chef de cabinet of the Secretary-General. Text of speech

INCB Mission to Bulgaria

INCB visited Bulgaria from 30 May to 1 June 2005, to examine the drug  control situation in the country as well as measures taken by the Government since the last INCB mission in 1995.  The mission was conducted by Dr. Robert J.J. Ch. Lousberg, Member of the Board, accompanied by Ms. Gisela Wieser-Herbeck, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Bulgarian Government, including the Minister of Health and Chairman of the National Drugs Council, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Deputy Minister of Economy, the Deputy Minister of Interior and high level officials from the Customs Agency, Police and the Ministry of Justice.  The mission also met representatives of WHO and of the Delegation of the European Commission in Bulgaria and visited the Sofia Municipality Centre for Addictions and the NGO Initiative for Health Foundation.

Issues discussed by the mission included the National Strategy for Drugs Control and the role of the National Drugs Council.  The mission specifically discussed the present state of control of drugs and precursors,  the drug abuse situation in Bulgaria, relevant legislation, measures against money laundering, the availability of controlled drugs required for medical treatment and the state of cooperation between the Bulgarian authorities and neighbouring countries.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2006.

World Health Assembly

On Friday, 20 May 2005, Professor Hamid Ghodse, INCB President, addressed the 58th session of the World Health Assembly on cancer prevention and control, highlighting the fact that the consumption of narcotic drugs was still characterized by large disparities around the world. "Developing countries, which represent about 80 per cent of the world's population, account for only about 6 per cent of the global consumption of morphine," the President said. He welcomed the adoption of a draft resolution entitled "cancer prevention and control" which urges Member States to ensure the medical availability of opioid analgesics according to the international treaties and recommendations of the World Health Organization and INCB. Furthermore, meetings were held with the Ministers of Health of Afghanistan, Liberia and South Africa, the Deputy Minister of Health of the Islamic Republic of Iran and with several other delegations. The President also met the WHO Regional Directors for Africa, for the Eastern Mediterranean, for Europe and the WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia. The President was accompanied by Mr. Koli Kouame, INCB Secretary, and Ms. Beate Hammond, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat. Text of speech

INCB mission to the Russian Federation

INCB visited the Russian Federation from 16 to 18 May 2005, to examine measures taken by the Government in drug control since the last INCB mission in 2000. The mission was conducted by Ambassador Melvyn Levitsky and Dr. Robert J. J. Ch. Lousberg, Members of the Board, accompanied by Mr. Pavel Pachta, Deputy Secretary of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Russian Government, including the Director of the Federal Drug Control Service of the Russian Federation, the Special Representative of the President of the Russian Federation for International Cooperation in the Fight against Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime, the Head of the Federal Financial Monitoring Service and several high level officials of the Ministries of Health and Social Development, Interior and Justice, and the Federal Customs Service. The mission also visited the National Scientific Centre of Narcology.

Issues discussed by the mission and the Government included the national drug control strategy and the priorities of the Government's policy on the prevention of drug abuse and the suppression of the illicit drug traffic. Specific topics included the coordination of drug control efforts, relevant legislation, treatment of addicts, measures against the illicit drug traffic, measures against money laundering, control over licit distribution of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and measures against the diversion of precursor chemicals.

The findings of the mission will be included in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2006.

INCB visited Paraguay from 4 to 8 April 2005 to examine measures taken by the Government in drug control since the last INCB mission in 2000. The mission was conducted by Professor Hamid Ghodse, President of INCB, accompanied by Ms. Margarethe Ehrenfeldner, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Paraguayan Government, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Health and Social Affairs, the Minister of Interior, the Minister of Justice and Work, the Attorney-General, the Minister of Finance, and officials from the National Anti-Drug Secretariat and the Customs Directorate.

Issues discussed by the mission and the Government included the illicit cultivation of cannabis in the country, drug and precursor trafficking, the drug abuse situation, control over the trade and distribution of pharmaceuticals and precursors to prevent their diversion into illicit channels and other measures to counter illicit activities related to drugs, including strengthening of relevant legislation, law enforcement and the judicial system, as well as plans for prevention of drug abuse.

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2006.

INCB mission to Mexico

A mission of INCB visited Mexico from 17 to 20 January 2005, to examine measures taken by the Government in drug control since the last INCB mission, in 1996.  The mission was conducted by Mr. Madan Mohan Bhatnagar, First Vice-President of INCB, and Dr. Elisaldo L. Carlini, member of INCB, accompanied by Ms. Margarethe Ehrenfeldner, Drug Control Officer of the INCB Secretariat.

The mission met with senior officials of the Mexican Government, including the Attorney-General and the Minister of Health, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Centre of Planning, Analysis and Information against Crime, the Federal Board of Sanitarian Risk Prevention and the National Council against Addictions, as well as non-governmental organizations active in prevention and treatment of drug abuse, such as the Youth Integration Centre.

Issues discussed by the mission and the Government included the illicit cultivation and manufacture of drugs in the country, drug and precursor trafficking, the drug abuse situation, control over the trade and distribution of pharmaceuticals and precursors to prevent their diversion into illicit channels and other measures to counter illicit activities related to drugs, including strengthening of legislation, law enforcement, actions against money laundering, prevention of drug abuse and treatment of addicts. 

The findings of the mission will be reflected in the forthcoming INCB Annual Report, to be published in early 2006.