The 48th session of the WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence (ECDD) convened from 20-22 October in Geneva (Switzerland) and online. The ECDD, composed of independent experts on drugs and medicines, assesses the health risks and benefits of psychoactive substances and issues recommendations on whether and how to schedule them under the  1961 and 1971  international drug control conventions. These recommendations are then submitted to the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) in Vienna (Austria) for consideration by Member States consideration.

This year, the ECDD reviewed one synthetic cannabinoid (MDMB-FUBINACA) and two synthetic opioids of the nitazene family (N-pyrrolidino isotonitazene / Isotonitazepyne and N-Desethyl etonitazene). The most notable development, however, was the critical review of the coca leaf’s status under international control. Following a formal request from the Plurinational State of Bolivia, supported by Colombia, WHO conducted a critical review and published its report ahead of this ECDD session.

The session began with a public information meeting, during which ECDD members and observers heard oral and written statements from stakeholders, all pertaining to the coca leaf. Members then deliberated in a closed session. The ECDD’s recommendation will be transmitted to the CND and voted on during the 69th session in March 2026.