INCB President, Mr. Werner Sipp, emphasizes Governments' obligation to pursue a comprehensive, integrated and balanced approach to addressing the world drug problem as an outcome of the UNGASS 2016.
New York, 21 July 2015 - In his presentation of the Annual Report of the International Narcotics Control Board for 2014 to the Economic and Social Council, the President of the Board, Mr. Werner Sipp underlined the importance of a comprehensive, integrated and balance approach in countering the world drug problem and drew Governments' attention to the fact that, even though considerable progress had been achieved, many countries have not implemented their treaty obligations in a balanced and comprehensive manner.
Mr. Sipp emphasized that in the outcome document of the United Nations General Assembly Special Session on the world drug problem in 2016, Governments should commit to reverse that situation and to implement policies that place the health and welfare of humankind first, position drug policy firmly within the context of the drug control treaties and the relevant Political Declarations, in full respect of human rights, giving prominence to demand reduction interventions, ensuring adequate availability of and access to controlled substances to those who need them for medical purposes as well as ensuring that sanctions for drug-related offences are proportionate to the offences and exclude the death penalty.
The President of the Board drew attention to the Board's recommendations calling upon Governments to endeavour to achieve balanced, comprehensive and humane drug control policies.
( to read the full statement to the Council click here).
WebTV recording of the ECOSOC Coordination and Management Meeting (Mr. Sipp's presentation starts at 0:58:37)
