This report assesses progress since the  2016 United Nations General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) on the World Drug Problem, examining how the global drug control framework has influenced reform efforts. Drawing on UN data, academic research, and civil society input, it finds that meaningful change has been limited. The report highlights the need to modernize international drug control treaties, strengthen health- and human rights–based approaches, and reform UN drug policy governance.

The foreword was authored by Commissioner Juan Manuel Santos, who played a key role in convening the 2016 UNGASS, and he also addressed the report launch on 3 February in Geneva.