INCB President presents annual reports and anniversary supplement to the Commission Narcotic Drugs

VIENNA, 14 April 2021 - The President of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), Mr. Cornelis P. de Joncheere, presented the Board's 2020 Annual Report, Supplement and Precursors Report to the 64th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, which is taking place in a hybrid format in Vienna from 12 to 16 April.

Following the ceremonial opening segment on 12 April, the President addressed the Commission under agenda item 5 (b), Challenges and future work of the Commission, World Health Organization and INCB in the review of substances for possible scheduling recommendations. He drew attention to the challenge of addressing the proliferation of non-scheduled chemicals and increasing emergence of "designer benzodiazepines".  He also referred to the Board's work with Member States to develop guidance on reporting requirements for cannabis and cannabis-related substances.

Addressing the Commission under agenda item 5 (c) on the work of the International Narcotics Control Board, the INCB President drew attention to the hidden epidemic of drug use among older persons, which is the focus of the thematic first chapter of the 2020 Annual Report. He also referred to the Board's analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on availability of internationally controlled substances, on access to treatment for people with substance use disorders, and on illicit drug activity. Mr. de Joncheere also presented the 2020 Precursors Report and the supplement to the annual report reviewing the achievements of the 1961 and 1971 conventions and highlighting challenges that need to be addressed by the international community.

Mr. de Joncheere also made an intervention under agenda item 5 (d) on international cooperation to ensure the availability of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances for medical and scientific purposes while preventing their diversion. He drew attention to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and action taken by the Board and the international community.

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