Emergency in Haiti

VIENNA, 17 August 2021

The recent devastating earthquake that struck Haiti has resulted in an emergency situation requiring, inter alia, urgent shipments of medications, including medicines containing internationally controlled narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

A partially collapsed building with broken columns, debris, and rubble scattered on the street after the earthquake in Haiti.

(Ralph Tedy Erol/AP Photo)

Photo: A building severely damaged following the earthquake in Haiti, illustrating the widespread destruction caused by the emergency.

INCB reminds all Governments that in acute emergencies, such as the one experienced in Haiti, it is possible to utilize simplified control procedures for the export, transportation, and provision of medicinal products containing controlled substances. Competent national authorities may permit the export of medicines containing narcotic drugs and/or psychotropic substances to the areas in the absence of the corresponding import authorizations and/or estimates. Urgent deliveries do not need to be included in the estimates of the receiving country.

Competent national authorities may find further information on the subject in the Guidelines for the International Provision of Controlled Medicines for Emergency Medical Care developed by the World Health Organization in cooperation with the Board.

See: E/INCB/PSY/C.L.23/2021 HAI [ English ] [ Français ] [ Español ]

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INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL BOARD

Emergency in Haiti