The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on 26 June, is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, reinforcing national and international efforts to combat this global issue, and promoting cooperation towards the goal of a drug-free world. This is pursued through increased awareness of the harm drugs inflict on individuals and communities, and by encouraging preventive and healthy behaviours.
The General Secretariat of the League of Arab States affirms that the Council of Arab Health Ministers focuses on combating drugs. At its 62nd ordinary session, held in Geneva in 2025, the Council adopted a resolution aimed at unifying Arab efforts to address this challenge. The resolution drew upon several key elements, including a plan to address emerging patterns in the misuse of prescription and psychotropic drugs, a report submitted by the Ministry of Interior of the United Arab Emirates, published on the unified electronic platform, for controlled substances in use in the UAE, and the strategy of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime regarding synthetic drugs.
The Council of the League of Arab States, at the Summit Level, issued Resolution 920 during its 34th ordinary session, held on 17 May 2025, in the Republic of Iraq, approving the establishment of an Arab Centre for Combating Drugs.
In this regard, the General Secretariat underscores its commitment to achieving the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 3) and to reducing the health and social burdens associated with substance abuse. It highlights the urgent need to raise awareness about drug prevention and to strengthen the capacity of healthcare and social support systems to address disorders linked to substance and alcohol misuse.
The General Secretariat also stresses the importance of supporting all efforts made by relevant agencies across Arab countries, enhancing cooperation—particularly through the harmonisation of legislation—and developing effective strategies, action plans, and programmes to curb the spread of drugs. These efforts are vital to safeguarding Arab societies from the threats posed by drug abuse, which undermines security, public health, and economic and human resources.
The Secretariat further stresses the need to integrate roles, establish joint strategic cooperation, and actively engage youth and harness their potential in the fight against narcotics and psychotropic substances. It underlines the necessity of investing in drug awareness and prevention initiatives, building the capacities of professionals in anti-drug agencies, and promoting the exchange of training programmes and expertise across various fields related to drug control.
