Illicit Transnational Networks Making Sustainable Development Elusive, Speakers Say as Third Committee Discusses Ways to Tackle Drugs, Organized Crime
Sustainable development would not be achieved so long as international criminal networks continued expanding their reach, delegates in the Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) said today during their annual general discussion on crime prevention, criminal justice and international drug control.
Jean-Luc Lemahieu, Director of the Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), opening the day-long debate via video-conference from Vienna, said that current UNODC approaches to combat crime and drugs focused on improving law enforcement and judicial processes. Calling for increased international cooperation, he urged Member States to protect the rights of defendants while upholding the interests of victims of trafficking.
The work of UNODC remained firmly rooted in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, he said. The Office was implementing programmes aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and giving particular attention to Goal 16 on peace, justice and strong institutions.
The representative of the European Union echoed Mr. Lemahieu, saying that it was more important than ever to strengthen institutions and law enforcement cooperation to fight organized crime. “Our citizens expect us to deliver,” he stressed, affirming the regional bloc’s commitment, with the help of UNODC, to fulfilling the 2030 Agenda targets aimed at significantly reducing illicit financial and arms flows, strengthening the recovery and return of stolen assets and combatting all forms of organized crime.
Several delegates reiterated their support of preventive measures to tackle transnational crime. Policies had to be aimed at “eradicating poverty, improving education and health, empowering women and girls, and combating all forms of discrimination”, said the representative of Brazil.
High income inequality was identified by several delegates as one of the main drivers of crime. Paired with weak national institutions, inequality was fostering an environment of impunity in which trafficking kingpins rarely faced justice
Inequality, conflict and the effects of climate change were resulting in patterns of mass migration that put vulnerable populations at increased risk of victimization by transnational criminal networks — a real concern for the African Group, said Egypt’s representative, who spoke on the Group’s behalf. Porous borders and limited law enforcement capabilities meant criminal networks could operate with greater ease, he said.
Illicit drug transit countries were seeing increased crime rates even as drug consumption among their populations was low, said the representative of the Dominican Republic. Drug trafficking through its borders was a serious security threat to Iran, stated its representative. “Here we are talking about tons instead of suitcases,” he said. The Government had spent significant resources to strengthen border controls, but international support in fighting the issue had been negligible.
Those factors highlighted the link between illicit drug and arms trafficking and terrorist organizations, said the representative of Afghanistan. He pointed to that new, hybrid form of terrorism, saying it was afflicting societies across the world.
Stamping out transnational criminal networks required comprehensive efforts to cut their means of financing, several delegates said. Financial accountability could be improved by strengthening intelligence units tasked with detecting money laundering and financing of terrorism.
The representative of Singapore, speaking on behalf of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), called for greater efforts to combat cybercriminals. A week-long operation in the region led by the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) this year had successfully identified and took down more than 9,000 malware-hosting sites and hundreds of compromised websites, he said.
Mitigating organized crime called for integrated international strategies that gave assistance to Member States that needed it most, several delegates noted. Speaking on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the representative of Jamaica said Community members were forced to divert vital development resources towards combating immediate security threats.
Speakers also stressed that financial assistance and capacity-building activities had to be paired with new frameworks to better understand the threat of transnational crime. The outdated “logic of war” used by some Member States had proven fruitless, said the representative of Colombia, adding that the international community had to develop responsible ways to “suffocate mafias”.
Also speaking today were the representatives of Japan, Mexico, Peru, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Eritrea, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Russian Federation, Liechtenstein, Syria, Italy, Viet Nam, United States, Nicaragua, Cuba, Zambia, Qatar, Tajikistan, Guatemala, India, Algeria, Belarus, Philippines, Georgia, Turkey, Nigeria, Thailand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Venezuela, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, China, South Africa, Myanmar, Nepal, El Salvador, Mali, Argentina, Bahrain, Morocco, Azerbaijan and Sudan, as well as the representative of the Holy See.
The Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) will reconvene at 10 a.m. on Thursday, 5 October, to begin its debate on advancement of women.
Background
The Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) met this morning to begin its general discussion on crime prevention and criminal justice and on international drug control. Before it was the report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of the mandates of the United Nations crime prevention and criminal justice programme, with particular reference to the technical cooperation activities of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) (document A/72/125).
It also had before it a note by the Secretary-General transmitting the report of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime on its eighth session (document A/72/91).
On international drug control, the Committee had before it a report of the Secretary-General on international cooperation against the world drug problem (document A/72/225).
Opening Statements
JEAN-LUC LEMAHIEU, Director of the Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), said that over the last year his Office had consolidated responses to the enormous challenges posed by drugs and crime. A plan of action was being implemented to devise integrated strategies that foster international cooperation and respect human right.
Efforts to combat crime and drugs focused on improving law enforcement and judicial processes, he noted. UNODC remained committed to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through implementation of programmes aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 16 on peace, justice and strong institutions. As such, efforts to reduce the supply of narcotics included developing closer links with law enforcement agencies. At the core of those efforts was the protection of defendants’ rights and of victims’ interests. UNODC was also offering gender-responsive and human rights-based HIV treatment in communities and prisons.
Referencing several high-level meetings, he said economic uncertainty was a main driver of crime and drug trafficking. Drugs and crime remained closely linked to violent extremism. UNODC was working to strengthen criminal justice responses to terrorism and other emerging crimes including piracy and heroin trafficking at sea. He noted increased extra-budgetary funding received by his Office, saying it represented a vote of confidence from Member States. UNODC would continue to foster close cooperation with national and United Nations agencies to share international best practices in the global fight against drugs and crime.
BRUNO RÍOS SÁNCHEZ (Mexico) observed that the global report on drugs last year showed considerable endeavours were being made to pull together. That should not be an exercise just for one year, he said, but a true theme guiding work and collation of information. The report from the national board on drug seizures enabled the provision of new responses for specific groups. Mexico wanted to ask whether it wouldn’t be possible to say more about the endeavours undertaken by the Office to galvanize other United Nations organs in the system into participation.
Mr. LEMAHIEU answered that the linkage between the 2030 Agenda and the outcome document of the United Nations General Assembly Special Session on the World Drug Problem were closely intertwined. The UNODC was playing an active role when it came to implementing the 2030 Agenda, and the Office’s World Drug Report in 2016 had made a link between drug control and the 2030 Agenda. Regarding the involvement of the United Nations family, he noted that the Secretary-General had given interest to the topic of drug issues.
Statements
COURTENAY RATTRAY (Jamaica), speaking on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), reiterated its position that attaining social stability and economic growth was indispensable to achieving goals in crime prevention and criminal justice. Members also prioritized prevention strategies, access to effective justice systems and sound drug control policy. Members still, however, faced significant challenges in achieving sustainable development due to the threats posed by organized crime, including illicit trafficking in drugs, persons and arms, as well as money-laundering. A range of unwavering efforts had been carried out by the Community’s members to combat those scourges, which had compelled them to divert resources from vital development activities for those purposes.
Collaboration with international partners in such efforts had been essential, he said, particularly in countering the world drug problem that was a common and shared responsibility which required a comprehensive, balanced and multifaceted approach. All CARICOM members were committed to implementation of such a policy, and looked forward to further inclusive participation in multilateral forums in Vienna. With the 2009 plan of action on the subject about to expire in 2019, he recommended that the Commission on Narcotic Drugs devote early consideration to its follow‑up, bearing in mind the need for international cooperation that gave adequate space for the crafting of national policies best suited to individual State situations. Future efforts should include broad collaboration between all relevant United Nations entities and their partners, as well as adequate resources for the UNODC.
JOSEPH TEO (Singapore), speaking on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), said it had put in place several initiatives to adapt to the challenges posed by foreign terrorist fighters and cross-border terrorism. The steps included a comprehensive plan of action on counterterrorism and the Manila Declaration, in which Member States agreed to counter radicalization and violent extremism through integrated, evidence-based measures such as dialogue, engaging communities and empowering youth. Member States had also been working closely to combat human trafficking and had put in place action plans to address the issue.
ASEAN had also focused on fighting cybercrime and the scourge of drugs, he said. It had organized several cybersecurity meetings and conferences including a roundtable meeting this year which brought together cybercrime prosecutors to discuss challenges and best practices in their field. This year, the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) had led an operation targeting cybercriminals in the region. The week-long operation had led to the successful identification and take-down of over 9,000 malware‑hosting sites and hundreds of compromised websites. Member States had also maintained a zero-tolerance approach to drugs and had put in place plans to tackle drug production and trafficking.
CHARLES WHITELEY, European Union, said it was more important than ever to further develop law enforcement cooperation to fight organized crime, stressing: “Our citizens expect us to deliver”. He called on all States to comprehensively implement the Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocols, and also welcomed the continuing process to establish a review mechanism for them. He urged the international community to dismantle the connections between terrorism and transnational organized crime such as arms and drug trafficking, looting and smuggling of antiquities, kidnapping for ransom, trafficking in human beings and smuggling of migrants. Law enforcement could no longer rely solely on traditional and reactive models of action. In addition to fighting modern criminal threats on their territories, States Parties to the Convention must also promote a wider transnational effort. “We should ensure that no gap emerges between modern-day criminality and our global policy response,” he said, calling for efforts to harmonize the definition and criminal sanctions related to money-laundering, strengthen current legislation on cash control to include cash shipped by freight or post, and improve mutual recognition of criminal asset freezing and confiscation order.
Europe and its neighbours continued to be confronted with a significant migration influx, he said, calling on the United Nations to spare no effort in eradicating trafficking in human beings through a cross-border approach. Children, women and girls were especially vulnerable and deserved protection. He called for the widest use of measure set forth in the Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants. The European Union was committed to reaching the 2030 Agenda targets aimed at significantly reducing illicit financial and arms flows, strengthening the recovery and return of stolen assets and combatting all forms of organized crime. In that respect, the Union appreciated the valuable work of UNODC and was its largest financial contributor. The Union would continue to promote the Special Session outcome document as a pivotal reference on which to base national policies and international cooperation. The Union continued to oppose the use of the death penalty, including for drug-related crimes.
JUN SAITO (Japan) described recent progress in his country, which had amended its penal code to strengthen responses to sexual offenses, and which had also become a party to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and the United Nations Convention against Corruption. In 2020, Japan would host the Fourteenth United Nations Crime Conference, whose theme would be “advancing crime prevention, criminal justice and the rule of law: towards the achievement of the 2030 Agenda.” The joint commitment adopted in April 2016 at the General Assembly Special Session was a “critical” guide to combatting the world drug problem. Trafficking in persons was another matter which also required action by the international community, not least because that grave violation of human rights was used as a tactic for recruitment and fundraising by terrorist groups.
AMR ABDELLATIF ABOULATTA (Egypt), speaking on behalf of the African Group, said there could be no sustainable development without security. Regional approaches were being implemented for the continued improvement of good governance and rule of law as tools to achieve peaceful, harmonious societies. Porous borders paired with limited law enforcement capacity remained an immense challenge for African countries. He said that convictions of traffickers were increasing and a larger number of victims were receiving protection. Still, smuggling of migrants remained a major challenge.
Deeply affected by the scourge of terror, Africa was receiving increased training to fight financing of terror from UNODC, he said, commending the Office’s work. Drug trafficking continued to pose a major threat to health and security in the region. High income inequality and limited criminal justice resources further worsened the situation. In response to those threats, an African Union plan of action on drug control was developed to foster integrated, comprehensive responses to transnational crime. The plan created synergy within the African Union in the fight against corruption, illicit drugs and small arms trafficking. Despite those efforts, production and trafficking of illicit drugs was a growing challenge. Further United Nations collaboration was needed to establish integrated programmes to combat drug trafficking, he said.
LEE HUAN TING (Singapore) said his country was at the forefront of the struggle against drugs being both a transit and destination country and in close proximity to the Golden Triangle. To keep drugs at bay, Singapore had taken a comprehensive and tough approach which tackled both drug supply and demand. That included prevention, drug education, strong laws and robust enforcement as well as putting in place a structured and evidence-based rehabilitation framework. Those efforts had led to a steady decline of drug abusers in Singapore. In 2016, the number of drug users detected dropped by 3 per cent compared to the previous year. However, drug use among the young continued to be a worrying trend in Singapore. People under the age of 30 made up two‑thirds of new users in 2016. He went on to highlight the growing threat posed by cybercrime which was estimated to cost the global economy $450 billion in 2016. Singapore had launched a national cybercrime action plan and had worked also on the regional level through ASEAN to launch initiatives such as cybercrime workshops. Singapore had also partnered with INTERPOL on operational collaborations with the aim of helping countries be more prepared to better confront the increasingly sophisticated challenges of cybercrime.
FATMAALZAHRAA HASSAN ABDELAZIZ ABDELKAWY (Egypt) associated herself with the African Group and highlighted the importance of bolstering international cooperation against terrorism. New forms of crime such as cybercrime and trafficking in cultural property should also be combatted through international cooperation. Her Government was taking measures to protect its cultural assets, such as a Monuments Protection Law which punished those who trafficked in assets. Other measures taken by Egypt aimed at combatting trafficking included working with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) against the exploitation of migrants. Egypt supported extending a declaration regarding the world drug problem to avoid a vacuum in the international response to the drug problem. Egypt’s activities also included combating corruption.
JUAN SANDOVAL MENDIOLEA (Mexico) said the world problem of drugs had increased globally, and the General Assembly Special Session was a “watershed” when it came to international policy on drugs. The Special Session outcome document’s balanced vision incorporated human rights and health aspects, and provided a broader view of sustainable development. There was still room for further strengthening cooperation, he said, and to ensure the Special Session would lead to progress, Mexico would present the omnibus resolution on drugs; only the General Assembly with all its Member States could ensure a cross-cutting approach. Turning to the agenda item of crime, he said the international community needed enhanced multilateral action on illicit financial flows. But the many international and regional instruments needed better, more effective cooperation. Mexico would therefore organize an international meeting to look at the issue of small and light weapons, which the international community had not effectively addressed. Weapons, after all, were the tools of organized crime.
GUSTAVO MEZA-CUADRA (Peru) said the fight against transnational organized crime and related threats called for comprehensive and consistent strategies. Those threats remained obstacles to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, he said, adding that international mechanisms had to be the foundation upon which mitigation efforts were built. Information-sharing and protection of human rights were also central to combating transnational crime. He commended UNODC’s balanced, integral fight against illicit drugs and called for those efforts to put human beings at the very centre. He referenced the promotion of alternatives for those cultivating drugs in Peru, also noting that reducing demand was based on education and therapeutic efforts that targeted young people. Corruption remained a challenge to consolidating those efforts.
Ms. AL NUSSAIRY (Iraq) said her country faced the consistent, interlinked threats of illicit drug trafficking and terrorism. Iraq was implementing counter‑terror and anti‑trafficking legislation to limit the effects of those crimes and punish perpetrators. A commission on integrity, responding directly to Parliament, was established to combat corruption and help consolidate the fight against organized crime. In the “spirit of tolerance”, efforts were in place to assist in the reintegration of drug offenders into society. She paid tribute to United Nations efforts to combat organized crime and the varied support her country had received to mitigate related threats. Iraq, through its law enforcement agencies, was seeking to tackle crime via cooperation with relevant institutions and through rehabilitation of perpetrators.
Mr. ALJABR (Saudi Arabia) supported technical cooperation activities undertaken by UNODC, as well as the recommendations in the report of the Secretary-General on the agenda item under discussion. Crime threatened the maintenance of the rule of law. There was a need to develop indicators regarding crime control as well as monitoring mechanisms allowing States to measure their attainment of goals. Saudi Arabia was seeking “complete justice” through a state of law as a pillar of development. The country also had a centre which adopted a dialogue approach and worked to combat extremism. Saudi Arabia sought to harness potential through its provision of firm punishment for those who trafficked in drugs.
MARÍA EMMA MEJÍA VÉLEZ (Colombia) said the debate provided a valuable opportunity for the international community to discuss the manifold problems associated with illicit drugs. The war against drugs was not won, and it was urgent for the international community to rethink the way it fought the problem. Colombia had made vast sacrifices in that struggle, yet the scourge continued to fuel violence. With the year 2019 marking a deadline given in the 2009 Political Declaration and Plan of Action on International Cooperation towards an Integrated and Balanced Strategy to Counter the World Drug Problem, the international community had to accept that the logic of war had not led to safety and that it could not aim at impossible targets. Colombia viewed the Special Session outcome document as a good starting point for policies built on people and their freedoms and rights. As Colombia searched for a way forward, all options should be reviewed to solve problems arising from drugs. The international community needed to talk about responsible regulation, to seek ways to suffocate mafias.
NADAV YESOD (Israel), describing the loss of healthy life to drug use as a worldwide epidemic, outlined national education and awareness-raising programmes aimed at keeping Israel’s young people safe and promoting a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. The country had also developed unique treatment and recovery services tailored for youth, especially at‑risk youth, and was combating the phenomenon through a comprehensive and balanced approach in compliance with relevant international conventions and with full respect for human rights. In line with operational recommendations on proportionality, when appropriate, the Israeli criminal justice system employed alternatives to incarceration including treatment programmes, public services or fines. It was also planning to decriminalize cannabis use for first-time offenders and working to target treatment services to fit the needs of its diverse population, including women, youth, comorbidity patients, ex‑convicts and others.
FREDERICO S. DUQUE ESTRADA MEYER (Brazil) said the international community must address the underlying causes of transnational crime, including through preventative policies aimed at eradicating poverty, improving education and health, empowering women and girls, and combating all forms of discrimination. He reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda while calling for the mainstreaming of the Member States’ work into the Third Committee resolutions, particularly the Political Declaration on the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons. To that end, Brazil undertook numerous legislative and institutional initiatives, such as a 2013 law against organized crime, a 2016 law against trafficking in persons, and a 2017 law on migration. Preventing and combating corruption also remained significant national priorities, and high profile investigations and convictions in recent years served as evidence of the country’s commitment to rule of law. Regarding agenda item 109 on international drug control, the Government reaffirmed its intention to follow up on the General Assembly Special Session, including through holistic approaches. Noting the importance of human rights norms and standards as part of the international legal framework for drug policies, he urged for greater efforts to mainstream human rights considerations into global responses.
NEBIL SAID IDRIS (Eritrea), associating himself with the African Group, said state collapse, famine and inequality in the Horn of Africa were fuelling transnational crime. Those threats impeded social development, he noted, adding that combating transnational crime had to focus on legal assistance and strengthening state capacity. Recent large scale human mobility was facilitating the victimization of young people by trafficking networks. Calls to the United Nations to investigate human trafficking affecting Eritrean citizens went unheard. No case of human trafficking could go unpunished, he stressed. Strong cultural norms were a major factor in maintaining low crime rates in Eritrea. Crime prevention was focused on protecting core rights of victims and was geared towards improving quality of life through employment, active community participation and promoting a culture of integrity.
MADJUKA WICKRAMARACHCHI (Sri Lanka) said that as part of its commitment to pursuing the Sustainable Development Goals, his country was determined to prevent the abuse of narcotic drugs and counter their illicit cultivation, production, manufacturing and trafficking, and affirmed its commitment to all aspects of demand reduction, supply reduction and related measures. Describing cooperation with international organizations and agreements in that regard, he said that, as the country had in past years become a transit hub for illicit drugs, it had tightened vigilance, expanded navy patrols adopted measures to prevent money-laundering. It was working closely with the UNODC and regional partners and respecting all human rights in the course of such efforts.
SUSAN W. MWANGI (Kenya), associating herself with the African Group, said transnational crimes were an obstacle to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda. Kenya was working to combat terrorism and organized crime networks, and other daunting challenges included trans-shipments of illicit cargo. The illegal trade of ivory and rhinoceros horns had resulted in the devastation of animal populations. To coordinate the country’s policies on the agenda items under discussion, Kenya had invested in regional mechanisms against small arms and light weapons, among other actions taken. An act against trafficking in persons focused especially on combating trafficking in women and children. Kenya called on other Member States to cooperate in building international cooperation in sharing intelligence and data. UNODC was thanked for its work in Eastern Africa, which aimed to allow States of the region to combat threats.
ELENA S. MUKHAMETZYANOVA (Russian Federation) called for the universalization of the Organized Crime Convention and Convention against Corruption, as well as the strengthening of combat against criminal challenges and threats. Combating cybercrime was particularly important. The UNODC was successful in carrying out its mandate. The Russian Federation was concerned that a decrease in allocations from the regular budget negatively affected scientific research. Other multilateral platforms should not replace the United Nations format, and thus it was vital for the international community to maintain the international drug control regime founded on the three relevant conventions. The drug problem in Afghanistan threatened peace and stability, and it was crucial for the international community to monitor and analyse the situation in that country, including through analysis of opium poppy growth. Support in combating narcotics could be done by the Collective Security Treaty Organization-led channel.
Ms. OEHRI (Liechtenstein) said transnational crime undermined rule of law and remained an obstacle to sustainable development. Those threats affected and involved all societies. The fight against transnational crime, including modern slavery, had to be rooted in strengthening law enforcement and criminal justice organizations. Echoing the Secretary-General, she said trafficking kingpins were rarely prosecuted. The fight against impunity called for focus on strengthening accountability through international criminal justice mechanisms and the use of financial intelligence units to combat money-laundering and financing of terrorism. Her country expressed the desire to help Member States improve their financial intelligence capabilities.
AMJAD QASSEM AGHA (Syria) said several countries were using terrorism as a tool to control the Syrian people and its resources. Consistent violations of international and humanitarian law were being conducted to impose a “one pole” world. United Nations counter-terrorism resolutions could not be implemented unless pressure was placed on Member States that pursued blind, unilateral policies against others. Continued Israeli crimes went undeterred, he said, adding murder was used as a political tool by some Member States. The coalition led by the United States to combat terrorist groups in the region was resulting in the death of more innocent civilians than terrorists. Those crimes showed the failure of the United Nations and underscored the need for its reform.
SEBASTIANO CARDI (Italy) said the world was grappling with challenges such as the growing impact of transnational criminal traffic on peace and security and the ties between organized crime and terrorism. Those challenges could be best addressed with the full application of the Convention against Transnational Organized Crime — known as the Palermo Convention — and its Protocols and should be made essential components in every crime prevention and criminal justice programme. Italy had contributed to the progress made in international frameworks in areas such as countering trafficking in persons, drug abuse and fighting corruption and financial crimes. Italy also intended to lend its support to two central goals: promoting the culture of legality among young people and improving access to justice, and creating hi-tech forms to improve the use of legal documentation.
G. SEDDIQ RASULI (Afghanistan) said a new hybrid of terrorism, transnational organized crime and illegal trade in drugs was pervading societies, noting that poppy cultivation and growing drug addiction was one of the consequences of the protracted conflicts in his country. The bulk of poppy cultivation was concentrated in the Afghanistan’s insecure provinces, and the Government had eradicated 750 hectares in 14 provinces during the course of 2017, an increase of 53 per cent compared to 2016. In that year, 2,138 drug traffickers had been captured, including foreign nationals. With global demand for illicit drugs increasing dramatically, a balanced approach between reducing demand and reducing supply was of crucial importance, he emphasized. Addressing the global problem would require a comprehensive and unified response focusing on trade, trafficking, production and consumption.
PHAM THI KIM ANH (Viet Nam) aligning herself with ASEAN, observed that while drug use in the world population had remained stable over the last five years, globalization and new communication technologies had put drug flows into a state of flux. Viet Nam took a comprehensive approach to the problem, promoting justice, crime prevention, and the investigation and prosecution of drug-related crimes through a National Committee on Drug Control. Viet Nam applied severe measures to combat drug crime through its amended penal code, and also followed money trails in an attempt to deprive criminals of the proceeds of crime. As Southeast Asia accounted for the majority of seizures of methamphetamine, Viet Nam worked to combat that scourge through cooperation with Interpol, among other organizations. Viet Nam appreciated international and regional cooperation and assistance for drug control and drug-related crime prevention.
STEFANIE AMADEO (United States) said her country was proud to be a member of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs and the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, as well as the single largest donor to the UNODC. The United States was highly concerned about increased illicit coca cultivation and cocaine production in the northern hemisphere, which posed risks to local communities and fuelled transnational organized crime, corruption, money-laundering, and cybercrime. The country had an imperative global interest in creating a future in which all nations could be prosperous and secure, she said, calling for greater international cooperation and political will in using existing treaties and other instruments to that end.
She said the United States Government identified combating transnational crime as a key priority, and had strengthened efforts to dismantle criminal groups and align resources to enhance the existing cooperation on law enforcement and technical assistance efforts with foreign Governments. Other priorities included a whole-of-government response to the unprecedented public health crisis around opioids and related synthetic drugs, and investing in the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB). The international community should “do more to keep pace with traffickers that rapidly create new substances that are then marketed through the dark web”, accelerate the sharing of information and analysis, and maintain the momentum to combat new and emerging substances, she urged. The world must have an integrated and balanced strategy to counter the drug problem, which was why the United States supported international drug demand reduction programmes and had a direct role in improving public security. The country was also committed to addressing corrupt behaviour that helped drug traffickers, criminals and terrorists to flourish.
MARÍA CLARISA GOLDRICK (Nicaragua) said deregulation and legalization of drugs were not viable options for creating an international drug control system. She reiterated the principles of shared responsibility, exchange of good practices and work with transit countries to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Nicaragua had become impenetrable to organized crime due to the creation of transparent cooperation networks that fostered dialogue among all sectors of society. However, combating transnational organized crime remained a major concern in the region. Nicaragua was contributing to regional peace efforts by promoting its Christian, socialist and supportive model of development. The model aimed to strengthen families and promote human rights through strong judicial mechanisms and proactive human security strategies.
ANAYANSI RODRÍGUEZ CAMEJO (Cuba), associating herself with the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), emphasized that confronting crime alone did not ensure its eradication. The fight against underdevelopment must go hand in hand with the struggle to establish a more just, democratic and equitable international order and more inclusive societies. Calling on relevant international bodies to work “without prejudice to their functions or duplicity by other forums”, she expressed support for the Mechanism for the Review of Implementation of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and the Protocols thereto, and emphasized the need to avoid “ranking” countries. The principle of common and shared responsibility was critical since it would be difficult to resolve issues of production and trafficking from the impoverished global South without eliminating demand in the developed global North. “This problem will neither be solved by militarizing countries or sweeping farmers away, nor by legalizing drugs or assuming that these are harmless substances,” she stressed, spotlighting Cuba’s zero-tolerance policy and its compliance with all relevant international conventions.
CHRISTINE KALAMWINA (Zambia) said her country had begun institutional reforms to minimize crime, especially against women and children. Laws prescribing stiff penalties for perpetrators of crimes against women and children had been enacted and reviewed. Zambia was a member of the Southern African Regional Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization, which facilitated the coordination of efforts to combat transnational organized crime, she noted. National and regional strategies as well as policies on the rule of law, crime prevention and criminal justice had been developed in response to new and emerging forms of transnational organized crime, including human and drug trafficking as well as wildlife-related crimes. Public and private institutions were also playing a critical role by providing for the treatment, rehabilitation and social integration of drug abusers and addicts, she said, adding that various mechanisms had been devised to ensure the availability of controlled substances for medical and scientific purposes.
BERNARDITO CLEOPAS AUZA, Permanent Observer for the Holy See, expressed support for creative and determined initiatives to fight the production of and trade in illicit drugs as well as the evil of international drug trafficking and drug use. The temptation to address the problem by simply easing restrictions on drug use should be resisted, he said, emphasizing that the underlying problems that provoked substance abuse should also be addressed. Quoting Pope Frances, he said: “We cannot stoop to the injustice of categorizing drug addicts as if they were mere objects or broken machines; each person must be valued and appreciated in his or her dignity in order to enable them to be healed.” He also drew attention to the deeply intertwined nature of the illicit trade in drugs and human trafficking, money-laundering, government corruption and increasing use of weapons, among other ills.
Mr. AL-MANSORI (Qatar) said the reports under the agenda item showed that major efforts were being made to combat crimes. Qatar commended the role played by the UNODC in supporting States in combating terrorism, trafficking in persons, and in enhancing criminal justice systems. Qatar had taken numerous steps to tackle crime and drugs, including through cooperating with regional organizations to address such crimes. The Doha Declaration contributed toward bolstering efforts in crime prevention. Member States were called on to implement their commitments under that Declaration. Qatar had set up an award in combating corruption to honour individuals who showed leadership and inspired others in that field. Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to combating crime and enhancing criminal justice at all levels, and to combating terrorism and corruption through dealing with the root causes of those problems.
FRANCISCO ÁLVAREZ SOSA (Dominican Republic), said geography and poverty made his country particularly vulnerable to illicit drug trafficking. The Dominican Republic had become a transit country for illicit drugs, he said, pointing to low national illicit drug consumption rates. The transit of drugs across its borders was increasing the overall crime rate, with drugs and firearms being the main causes of violence. Weak institutions meant impunity remained a major challenge. He expressed deep concern about the condition of homeless youth afflicted by illicit drugs, adding that most crimes in the country were committed by young people with the chief motive of obtaining drugs. Yet, the rights of consumers had to be protected and access to health services had to be provided. Combating illicit drugs meant combating poverty.
MAHMADAMIN MAHMADAMINOV (Tajikistan) said combating illicit drug trafficking and the related funding for international terrorism, required joint and coordinated efforts. The international community, regional and international organizations must coordinate measures aimed at reducing the demand and supply of drugs and integrate efforts into the international strategy for control over narcotics. To that end, Tajikistan had established bilateral cooperation with agencies, regional organizations and partner countries as part of the 2013‑2020 national strategy to fight against illicit drug trafficking. Other goals included reducing the illicit distribution of narcotic drugs and their non‑medicated use; addressing consequences of trafficking on health safety, society and state security; and expanding international cooperation. Noting the importance of analytical data, he said Tajikistan published an annual journal that provided information and analytical materials for law enforcement and planning activities. Thanks to those efforts, the Government had established close cooperation with interested countries, including the Russian Federation, United States, China, and Afghanistan, among others. Additionally, the national drug control agency had seized approximately 2.5 tons of narcotic drugs during the first half of 2017.
JORGE SKINNER-KLÉE (Guatemala) said data showed an expansion of drug markets in North America and Europe. Due to their proximity to those markets, Guatemala and other countries in the region had experienced a growth in the drug trade which had led to violence, transnational crime, assassinations and killings. The insatiable demand for drugs had exhausted the public resources in the country. Despite those challenges, the Government remained determined to fight the drug trade and had designed policies to combat it. The Government had worked with international organizations and countries such as Mexico and Honduras to control the drug trade and drug usage. However, the speaker asked if prohibition was the best option for fighting the problem given the growing demand for drugs.
MAYANK JOSHI (India) said India was a strong advocate of international cooperation to address the challenges of tackling transnational organized crimes and it was Party to the relevant Conventions on transnational organized crime, drug control system and corruption. While the conventions addressed many issues, global solutions had not been found in other areas. The Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism had seen little progress, due in part to a lack of clarity on definitional issues and a lack of common understanding on areas such as cybersecurity. According high priority to combatting trafficking in persons, India had adopted a multi-stakeholder approach, enacted laws and addressed cybercrimes through forensic training and investigative laboratories. The Government also had created numerous anti-human trafficking cells. As a supplier of opiate raw material and a cultivator of “legit” opium, India discharged its responsibilities commensurate with the three drug conventions, and had established a committee and online monitoring system to detect and identify new psychoactive substances. The country also regulated the legitimate manufacture and trade of precursors, particularly for medication. India would continue to share its skills and expertise in crime prevention areas, including law enforcement, forensic science and cybersecurity with partners.
MELLE NORA IMANE BELLOUT (Algeria), associating herself with the African Group, said the world was undergoing significant shifts while the United Nations was accelerating implementation of the 2030 Agenda. In order to tackle the scourges of organized crime and drug trafficking, Algeria was modernizing its judiciary, and she reiterated her country’s commitment to upholding and implementing United Nations Conventions on crime and drugs. Cybercrime in particular continued to present a serious challenge. Organized crime had created a favourable environment for terrorism and violent extremism, she said, adding that drug trafficking was among their most significant sources of financing. Algeria was working to strengthen the fight against organized crime through education. The war on drugs was being fought through prevention and treatment.
Mr. YARKOVICH (Belarus) said Belarus focused on countering trafficking in persons, noting that the outcome of the twenty-sixth session on crime prevention and criminal justice had included the adoption of a resolution on combating human trafficking. Collective efforts in combating human trafficking were important, he said, suggesting that UNODC should set up a single United Nations database on national coordinators to combat human trafficking, proposing also that the Inter-Agency Coordination Group against Trafficking in Persons should hold a meeting to formulate collective action and dictate new challenges. Calling for strengthened regional cooperation between States, he added that Belarus supported the international legal system and the work to bolster the anti-narcotics conventions and their tailoring to new realities. However, Belarus objected to the lifting of taboos and bans, saying it was necessary to establish international efforts to prevent drug use among children and adolescents.
DIONISIO SANTIAGO (Philippines) said that addressing the drug problem remained a top priority for his country. Under the current administration, the anti-drug campaign had been strengthened through collaboration among national government agencies, non-government organizations, faith-based groups, and the private sector. From July 2016 to September 2017, more than 76,000 anti-drug operations were conducted resulting in the arrest of nearly 114,000 drug personalities and the seizure of 2,500 kilograms of “shabu” or methamphetamine hydrochloride. To reduce drug demand, programmes focused on community and individual capacity-building in cooperation with different sectors of society. To address the unprecedented number of drug-dependent people who voluntarily surrendered to authorities, the Dangerous Drugs Board had developed guidelines on community-based interventions through anti-drug abuse councils. The Government also worked with the private sector and international partners to build inpatient rehabilitation facilities, and it partnered with civil society to develop numerous prevention, intervention and rehabilitation programmes. The Philippines continued to put individuals at the heart of the anti-drug abuse campaign, he said, stressing: “Every Filipino must take a stand against the drug menace.” The country was expanding programmes to address not only illicit crop cultivation but to also include livelihood opportunities in urban areas. To maintain the legitimacy and integrity of anti-drug campaigns, all law enforcers were required to follow established procedures. Human rights enforcers ensured that operational protocols were aligned with the law and existing international practices.
Ms. KIPIANI (Georgia), aligning herself with the European Union, said her Government remained committed to strengthen the country’s legal framework and criminal justice system. A major prosecution reform was underway and progress had been made in institutional reforms to ensure scrutiny of the criminal justice system. Laws had also been reviewed to protect the rights of women and rape victims. The Government was committed to strengthening the criminal justice system with a focus on protecting human rights.
MURAT UĞURLUOĞLU (Turkey) said human trafficking had become a very profitable business for terrorist organizations. As the biggest refugee hosting country, Turkey had drafted a National Action Plan against Human Trafficking and had established a multilingual, toll-free helpline and other programmes. His country had also reinforced measures against the illegal transfer of historical artefacts and continued its fight against terrorism and all terrorist organizations, most notably the Fethulla Gȕllen, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD). Exposed to an extensive flow of illicit drugs, Turkey had based it counter-narcotics policy on fighting domestic distribution networks, dismantling international drug trafficking networks and investigating the use of drug trafficking to finance terrorism, particularly by the PKK.
SAMSON ITEGBOJE (Nigeria), associating himself with the African Group, said his Government had brought national legislation into compliance with the Convention against Corruption, a measure which also served to combat other transnational organized crime. The country was also combating drug proliferation, trafficking and abuse through a National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and was implementing a programme named “TreatNet” which aimed to help school counsellors respond to students involved in drug use. Social media had great potential to disseminate information, he said, noting Nigeria’s use of Twitter and Instagram to spread drug abuse preventive messages. But the country was still plagued by expansive cannabis cultivation despite sustained control efforts. Cannabis accounted for the most significant quantity of drugs seized in Nigeria in 2016.
THIRANAT SUCHARIKUL (Thailand), associating herself with ASEAN, said the rule of law should ensure the betterment of all people’s livelihoods while ending impunity for perpetrators. Thailand was a promoter of the rule of law at the national and international levels, including by advocating for prisoners and contributing to the setting of norms and standards for feminist criminology, she said. The Government had also launched a pilot project that promoted implementation of the Mandela Rules in its prisons and correctional institutions. Rapid social and economic transformations made transnational crimes much more complex, she noted, calling for a global response to tackle their root causes, while addressing human and drug trafficking as the nexus between crime and development. Thailand’s zero-tolerance policy towards human trafficking entailed extensive cooperation with stakeholders and a victim-centred approach, she said. Narcotics control remained at the top of the national agenda — as did treatment and rehabilitation, social integration and alternative development — in addressing the problem in a holistic and inclusive manner. Progress could be seen in the Narcotics Addict Rehabilitation Act of 2002, the Penitentiary Act adopted in 2017, and the crop-substitution project. The Government had also proposed a draft resolution on “Promoting and encouraging the implementation of alternatives to imprisonment as part of comprehensive crime prevention and criminal justice policies”.
NABEEL MUNIR (Pakistan) said that despite progress in reducing the production, manufacture and trafficking of major drugs, new psychoactive substances continued to emerge worldwide. Due to the proliferation of new technology, drug flows were characterized by rapid changes in trafficking routes and concealment methods. Pakistan had been a poppy-free State since 2001. The enforcement of strict drug laws had reduced domestic drug production, but poppy cultivation in the region had increased. Policies were in place to combat narcotics and reduce drug supply and demand reduction. In the past year, the Government had seized over 342 tons of illicit drugs and contributed to almost 25 tons of illicit drugs seizures worldwide. He expressed concern that the growing trend to legalize the use of illicit drugs would be counter-productive and would further ignite the supply chain. “Our objective, after all, has been to build a drug-free society, not a drug-tolerant society,” he said. “We should remain true to our objective”. Comprehensive and integrated crime prevention and criminal justice responses were vital for rule of law, peace and stability, he continued. Money laundering and corruption were formidable challenges. To that end, Pakistan had joined the International Convention for the Suppression of Financing of Terrorism, and established a special financial monitoring unit to cooperate with other countries in combatting money laundering and terrorist financing.
MASUD BIN MOMEN (Bangladesh) said poor and marginalized people, especially women and children, were falling prey to human trafficking. The Government remained committed to working with the Group of Friends United against Human Trafficking while putting in place a national action plan to combat the problem and collecting data to understand it better. Drug abuse was on the rise in the country. Bangladesh had introduced several measures, among them drug awareness, treatment and rehabilitation programmes to curb the problem. Another challenge facing the country was the rise of terrorism. The Government had a zero-tolerance attitude toward terrorism and radicalization and had formed units to limit illicit financial flows that funded terrorist activities.
MARISELA EUGENIA GONZALEZ TOLOSA (Venezuela) said combating the scourge of drugs was a constant effort both nationally and internationally. Venezuela was committed to fighting the problem and had developed measures which included a rehabilitation, treatment and reintegration system for drug abusers. It had also taken steps to stop the activities of criminal groups that produced and sold drugs. Fighting the drug trade required international cooperation and Venezuela rejected unilateral attempts that would undermine such cooperation. Venezuela had worked with neighbouring countries to control the drug trade while bringing to justice drug cartels.
RUSLAN BULTRIKOV (Kazakhstan) said that the serious threats posed by transnational organized crime and trafficking in persons and drugs should be countered through close cooperation among States, regional and international organizations in an integrated, balanced and holistic approach. Individuals and societies must be at the centre of all policy directives. His country, which had joined many international agreements on the topic, was at the national level implementing institutional reforms in the law enforcement and justice sectors. It also participated in UNODC’s regional and international programmes and was active in the Central Asian Regional Information Centre, which was critical to anti-crime efforts. He pledged the country’s continuing commitment to work with others for a world free of transnational crime.
Ms. HORBACHEVA (Ukraine), associating herself with the European Union, said the world drug problem required enhanced cooperation based on the principle of shared responsibility. Ukraine was committed to promoting and strengthening drug demand reduction programmes with the goal of promoting the health of individuals and communities. As UNODC played a role in assisting Member States in implementing drug strategies and building criminal justice systems, the Office should take further steps in sharing best practices. Ukraine for its part remained committed to the effective implementation of plans related to migration. In Ukraine, migration flows were fuelled by the conflict in the Donbas region “initiated and fuelled by Russia” as well as by the illegal occupation and attempted annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol. Ukraine thanked UNODC for its support in combating HIV/AIDS, corruption, money-laundering and drug trafficking.
WANG ZHAO XUE (China) said the international community was making progress in the fight against drug trafficking and the like, but new types of crime were emerging, including cybercrimes and telecommunications crime. China attached great importance to anti-corruption efforts, and parties should implement the relevant conventions so corrupt officials would have nowhere to hide. As large-scale migration was a challenge to the international community, countries should facilitate safe, regular and orderly migration. Countries should address the world drug problem in a balanced way, he said, noting that China rejected any attempt to legalize the use of illegal drugs. China also opposed the weakening of the three relevant conventions. Countries were entitled to formulate their own drug control policies, but the question of death sentences should not be associated with that of drugs.
LESETLA ANDREAS TEFFO (South Africa), associating himself with the African Group, said his country was concerned about the issue of illicit drug trafficking. As countries reviewed their policies on drug use, it was crucial for them to be mindful that policies met the requirements set forth in international drug control conventions. Another issue which the country was concerned about was forced labour and sex trafficking. He welcomed efforts to address the problem within the context of the 2030 Agenda as well as the United Nations Summit for Refugees and Migrants and the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons. In addition, the Government remained committed to protecting wildlife in the country and preventing illegal activities which harmed its flora and fauna.
YE MINN THIEN (Myanmar), associating himself with ASEAN, said his Government was implementing relevant international conventions to combat organized crime and recognized unilateral action on the matter was ineffective. Combating narcotics was a priority, he said, as poppy cultivation and the influx of precursor chemicals remained major challenges for Myanmar. Government efforts aimed to reduce supply and demand for narcotics and various committees had been created to monitor the process. Infrastructure development was a priority to assist populations in regions notorious for poppy production. Awareness efforts on the detrimental effects of illicit drug use were being targeted at young people, he noted. Victims of drug use were receiving treatment and rehabilitation assistance in Government centres across the country. He called for increased cooperation to bring an end to the menace of narcotic drugs.
LOK BAHADUR POUDEL CHHETRI (Nepal) said terrorism, trafficking in persons, the illicit drug trade, corruption and money laundering were menaces to society which posed threats to international peace and security. The United Nations had great potential as a partner when it came to preventing such transnational crimes, he said, singling out the work of Interpol as critical in that regard. Nepal, for its part, had large numbers of outbound migrant workers, and was hit hard by human traffickers whose victims were targeted for sexual exploitation, bonded labour, organ extraction and other forms of exploitation. As for drug trafficking and related crimes, Nepal had set up institutional mechanisms to monitor and review the implementation of relevant legal instruments. Finally, on the subject of terrorism, Nepal urged all to work for the early conclusion of an anti-terrorism global convention. The international community should take renewed action on all of the above and should also enhance developing countries’ capacities to respond.
MAYRA LISSETH SORTO ROSALES (El Salvador) expressed concern about the world drug problem and its impact on social life. What was needed was coordinated action and a holistic approach which focused on respect for individuals’ rights. In order to combat the world drug problem, the international community needed to find and capture the main drug lords, improve efforts to combat drug laundering, and improve the seizure of drug assets. In October 2016, a national drug strategy had been adopted in El Salvador which recognized that drug dependence was first and foremost a public health problem. With the assistance of partners such as the European Union, professional and non-professional personnel were being trained in treating drug users. El Salvador believed that joint action to combat the world drug problem had to be based on shared responsibility, and the country supported implementing measures to reduce drug demand, as well as measures aimed at combating drug-related organized crime.
ISSA KONFOUROU (Mali), noting that the drug trade was a source of funds for terrorist and organized crime groups, said the Government had introduced several measures to combat it, such as setting up a centralized office to control the use of drugs, organizing seizures of substances such as cannabis and cocaine, and arresting people, including foreigners, involved in the drug trade. Countries needed to work together to combat drug trafficking and form coordinated and centralized efforts. The root causes of drug abuse such as poverty and unemployment must also be addressed, he said.
GABRIELA MARTINIC (Argentina) said her Government was committed to reducing drug use and trafficking. The country had coordinated efforts among federal, provincial and border officers, such as by forming joint task forces to reduce the supply of illicit drugs. She noted that Argentina had made progress in collecting and collating data and had developed a map on drug users as well as on the price, purity and strength of drugs and drug trademarks and brands. It had also worked to train federal agents on drug trafficking issues and had introduced several laws to control drug production and trade.
Mr. AL-TERAIFI (Bahrain) said drug control was a priority for his country, as drug use led to serious problems. Bahrain had established several mechanisms that combined formal and grassroots efforts; all segments of society needed to be aware of drug-related problems. The Ministry of Interior Affairs had established an office on drugs which monitored drug use in all parts of the kingdom. Bahrain had passed its first law on drug use in 1948 and since then had passed laws that punished traffickers. In 2006, the Cabinet had established a committee to control drugs. The Ministry of Interior Affairs had established a national strategy on drug use, he said, noting that the office for customs was now part of the Ministry. Through its efforts, Bahrain could detect smuggled substances and provide personnel at border points.
NAILA HAIDOUR (Morocco) said the international community had to invest in prevention and delivering support to drug-dependent persons. A strategic policy was critical in fighting the global drug problem, she said, noting that her country had ratified the three relevant conventions. Morocco’s strategy for fighting drugs took a three-pronged approach focused on reduction of demand and of offer for illicit substances, and on implementation of programmes to promote substitution devices and substances. Morocco had a policy to fight cannabis, an effort which was entirely self-financed. Awareness-raising campaigns had also been launched, which involved civil society. A deterioration of drug control in the Sahel region showed a need for greater monitoring at sea and on land, she said, adding that Morocco believed that alternative development policies had to be linked to other policies. Morocco, for its part, built on multidimensional initiatives over the medium and long term.
HABIB MIKAYILLI (Azerbaijan) said the country had made significant progress in amending its criminal legislation, improving the penal policy, ensuring rights of prisoners, improving the penitentiary system and modernizing the judiciary. Last year, more than 350 people were pardoned and 3,500 received amnesty. Furthermore, some economic offences were decriminalized. Joint action plans were signed to support the juvenile justice system, and special attention was paid to improving detention conditions and medical care throughout the justice system. To address human trafficking, three national action plans were adopted, as well as a law on combatting the scourge and four criminal code articles defining liability. A special police unit and a national coordinator mechanism were created to coordinate activities, and 90 bilateral and multilateral agreements promoted the exchange of information between Government agencies. Azerbaijan’s agency for services and social innovations also provided 251 public services.
MOHAMMAD HASSANI NEJAD PIRKOUHI (Iran) said the brunt of the drug trade was born most heavily by transit countries, such as Iran. “Here we are talking about tons instead of suitcases,” he said. Drug trafficking was a serious security threat in the country, but international support in fighting the issue had been negligible. Numerous law enforcement officers had lost their lives while the Government had spent significant resources to strengthen border controls to limit the flow of illicit drugs. To address the problem of drug usage, the Government had put in place rehabilitation, prevention and reintegration programs which had also contributed to a 60 per cent decrease of HIV infections among drug abusers.
Ms. MUKHTAR (Sudan) said her country had made progress in addressing crimes such as human trafficking, terrorism and money laundering. It had enacted laws to prevent the flow of illicit funds while introducing stronger border controls to curb human trafficking. Sudan believed that the community and the State must work hand in hand to prevent crime and had introduced a community police programme in which citizens cooperated with law enforcement officers. The program had led to a reduction of crime levels. She noted, however, that transnational crime required international, regional and bilateral cooperation as well as focus on addressing the root causes of crime which was namely poverty.