This advocacy paper examines the adoption of UN Human Rights Council Resolution 60/26 on the human rights implications of drug policy. Tabled by Colombia on behalf of a cross-regional core group, the resolution was adopted without a vote in October 2025. The analysis reviews its significance in affirming the Human Rights Council’s role in drug policy debates, strengthening the mandate of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and expanding the integration of human rights considerations in drug policy discussions.

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This information pack examines sentencing options used as alternatives to the death penalty, with a focus on life and long-term imprisonment. Drawing on comparative international research, it reviews global trends and evaluates their compatibility. The publication analyzes the implications of increased reliance on life imprisonment and outlines practical guidance to support proportionate, humane and rights-based responses to serious crimes.

This 2026 edition replaces the first edition published in 2015.

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In its 2025 Annual Report, the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) highlights the role of international cooperation under the Three International Drug Control Conventions in protecting health and addressing illicit drug challenges. The report underscores the effectiveness of monitoring systems to prevent diversion of controlled substances, operational platforms supporting real-time information exchange, and partnerships with governments and the private sector. It also notes persistent disparities in access to affordable medicines for pain relief.

Watch the global launch of the report.

Read the full report in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.

This publication examines the outcome of the WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence (ECDD)’s critical review of the coca leaf. Despite findings indicating no significant public health harms associated with traditional coca use, the ECDD recommended retaining coca leaf in Schedule I of the 1961 Single Convention. The analysis explores the rationale for this decision, including interpretations of the “convertibility” principle, concerns regarding cocaine control, and the implications for traditional uses and the UN drug scheduling system.

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The 61st session of the Human Rights Council provides key opportunities to examine the human rights impacts of drug control policies across agenda items, including torture, human rights defenders, housing, financing for development, counter-terrorism, the death penalty, and Universal Periodic Review outcomes. Discussions may highlight safeguards against ill-treatment, protection of defenders, non-discriminatory access to housing, rights-based budgeting, proportionate legal frameworks, and the abolition of the death penalty, including for drug-related offenses.

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This operational guide provides evidence-based, practical steps to support the planning, implementation and scale-up of needle and syringe programmes as part of comprehensive harm reduction responses. It translates WHO recommendations into actionable guidance for programme managers, donors and community actors. It outlines a structured framework covering planning, service delivery, integration, monitoring and sustainability, emphasizing human rights, community leadership and equitable access.

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This article examines youth drug use as a global public health and human rights challenge, highlighting its impact on health, education, dignity and social protection. It reviews international legal frameworks, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and underscores state obligations for prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. The paper analyzes best practices and emphasizes comprehensive, rights-based approaches.

Read the full report in English and Uzbek.