Substance Abuse

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Brazil
Delegate Name: Andrew Curvelo

Internationally each country suffers from some degree of substance abuse which harms its population through poverty, homelessness, and addiction. Substance abuse can be attributed to a multitude of factors from peer pressure to self medicating, thus the Federative Republic of Brazil believes only drug dealers should suffer harsh penalties for intent to sell, with a maximum of 15 years, while users are subject to recovery programs and community service. The overall aim is to create a stable base for a group of people characterized by instability, which is achieved through support initiatives such as Braços Abertos which offers treatment, housing, and employment to addicts
The Federative Republic of Brazil proposes foremost providing support to addicts through two primary points. Increased rehabilitation programs so addicts can more comfortably heal and return to normal life and decriminalization of narcotics for medicinal use in reduced amounts to aid the rehabilitation process. In addition, The Federative Republic of Brazil believes the best way to prevent drug use is to heavily punish the person selling the narcotics, as well as increasing monitoring of prescription drugs. Alcohol and tobacco restrictions would also help to reduce addiction to legal substances.
The best way for the WHO to provide treatment and care to addicts is by ensuring healthcare professionals can recognize and treat addiction, thus educating physicians must take place. Programs to properly inform and educate medical professionals on how to properly care for addicts should be instated; by educating doctors, the WHO is teaching the man to fish. In addition, pushing for decriminalized medicinal use would benefit addicts by making the rehabilitation experience less painful.
The Federative Republic of Brazil proposes the best way to monitor programs such as ones pertaining to the education of doctors on addicts would be a global commission to report to. A group of people knowledgeable on narcotics that manage data pertaining to narcotic use and addict recovery and make said data more accessible for a global audience. This would create the groundwork for a global community dedicated to addict recovery and drug use prevention.

Works Cited
World Health Organization. “Alcohol, Drugs, and Addictive Behaviours.” World Health Organization, 2023.
https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/alcohol-drugs-and-addictive-behaviours
Secretariat of Social Assistance and Development – São Paulo. “Programa Braços Abertos (Open Arms Program).” Prefeitura de São Paulo, 2024.
https://www.prefeitura.sp.gov.br (Chat GPT used to translate)
Drug Policy Alliance. “Effective Policies for Drug Regulation and Decriminalization.” Drug Policy Alliance, 2023.
https://www.drugpolicy.org

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Jasmine Mand

As world trade rises, so does the trade of drugs. About 292 million people used a drug in 2022, which is a 20% increase from the last decade. Furthermore, 40 million people are diagnosed with a drug disorder; there are 600,000 deaths per year from drug abuse. As people use more injections, HIV and other immune deficiencies increase. Overdose also accounts for a quarter of drug related deaths. Although drugs like naloxone can prevent drug related deaths, it is often limited to health care professionals. In South Africa, there is an increase of crime due to substance abuse. There is an increase in hepatitis and an increase in violence. As people suffer from substance abuse it disrupts their quality of life and the rate of addiction increases.

South Africa has implemented several methods to combat the substance abuse issue. They have issued the National Drug Master Plan. This plan aims to create a South Africa free from substance abuse. By educating the young, substance abuse can be reduced. South Africa also implemented law enforcement like the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act 2008. This act aims to reduce the demand and harm caused by addiction through prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation programs. The opioid crisis has also become a growing problem, with an increasing number of people becoming addicted to prescription painkillers and heroin. The South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence is the leading NGO toward treatment and prevention. They also help with community development and training. We also ask aid from WHO toward evidence based treatment services.

With this substance abuse problem in South Africa, the crime rates have increased and developing nations do not have enough resources to combat these problems. There needs to be legislation in place to reduce the impact of drugs. NGOs like the United Nations Drug Abuse Center can help fund research and relief programs. South Africa’s National Drug plan emphasizes the need for education toward the young and implementing harsh laws. South Africa also advocates for a global viewpoint on these rising issues and public health safety.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Guyana
Delegate Name: Eli Ligon

The delegation of Guyana is hard at work at the worsening global state of addictive behaviours in substances and their wide-extent effects on public health, social arrangements and economic stability. Substance abuse has become a significant scourge facing Guyana, in particular youth and underserved populations. Hurtful use of substances has led to an increase in mental health disorders, as well as crime and social disintegration, from alcohol, cannabis and opioid use. Understanding that substance abuse is not just about public health (or health for that matter), Guyana has adopted a sustainable development and holistic approach that recognizes that substance abuse is a major impediment to development and wellbeing in society. Hence, it is important to take good action in the world map.
In addressing this urgent challenge, we call for comprehensive approaches that include the prevention and treatment of substance abuse. This statement includes the need for education and awareness campaigns, particularly targeting vulnerable groups, and the development of national health systems that would promote treatment for those suffering from addiction. In addition, the delegation highlights the need for global efforts to combat the illegal drug trade which has been a major driver of the substance use epidemic. Guyana concedes that the World Health Organization (WHO) can play an instrumental part in assisting (member states) to reduce substance abuse and its related harms through technical support, research initiatives (and) the sharing of best practices.
Additionally, Guyana emphasizes the need for a comprehensive policy that incorporates harm reduction initiatives with a focus on reducing demand for illicit narcotics. With that in mind, the delegation calls upon the WHO to work with member states to make sure that evidence-based treatment services, rehabilitation programs and social reintegration initiatives are available for the people who require them. Guyana strongly believes that by working concertedly and collectively, the world community can create new and enduring solutions to reduce the harm of substance abuse, protect public health and create societies that are resilient over the long term.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Greece
Delegate Name: Rafay Dar

World Health Organization
Topic: 2024 Substance Abuse
Country:Greece
Delegate name:Rafay Dar
School: Forest Hills Central High School

According to John Hopkins medicine, Substance use is a recognized disorder in which someone repeatedly uses substances under circumstances that may impact their life negatively. This topic has been a bigger problem globally in more recent years, as the rate of substance abuse has been steadily increasing in the past decade. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, drug use has increased by 20% over the past decade. In 2022, there were over 292 million people worldwide who were known to use drugs, showing that this somewhat large fraction of the global population is involved. This topic is very important and controversial to address as with drug use, comes drug abuse; drug abuse is a serious problem as it could impact one’s mental and physical health poorly while still being against the law most of the time. In Greece, a survey was conducted in 2006 to determine the statistics of drug abuse within the population of people aged 15-64. In the report, it was found that almost 20% of responders admitted to using illicit drugs at some point in their lives.

In 2017, UNODC executive director stated that the lack of education for substance abusers in how serious the issue of drug addiction and use can be for them was severe, and substance abuse could potentially be lower should the education about the risks associated was more widespread. There have been many acknowledgements within the United Nations about how widespread this problem is and what should be done to address it, but so far there have been no true definite solutions implemented. In 2009, the Political Declaration and Plan of Action on International Cooperation Towards an Integrated and Balanced Strategy to Counter the World Drug Problem, which was a list of problems associated with substance abuse and which goals the world should have about fixing these problems. There are a lot of nonprofit organizations trying to spread awareness about the substance abuse problem, and one of the most significant NGOS in Greece is called KETHEA, which is a nonprofit organization with its goal being to attempt to rehabilitate and provide support to former substance abusers.

In Greece, substance abuse often led to an increased rate in poverty, as there has been a 25% increase of homelessness in the country and a large fraction of this is to blame on substance abuse. There has also been an increase in remedies and organizations in order to deal with substance abuse, such as a more readily available supply of naloxone, which is a medication helped to deal with opioid overdoses. The Greek government has mostly been following a uniform plan within the European Union in order to deal with substance abuse by both lowering the supply and demand for illicit substances that may lead to drug abuse. Greece would definitely adopt policies in which drug supply is more regulated as substance abuse often comes from chaos on disorganization within the market.

Greece would encourage the UN to increase the amount of government funding from all countries into drug research and also stronger government backing for non profit organizations that remedy the problem of substance abuse. OKANA and KETHEA are prominent examples of these ngos, however only 1 in 5 substance abusers receive the proper care that they require. If a significant portion of member states were to create or support a joint organization that encompassed all aspects of this problem, primarily the regulation of illicit substances and opioids, then the amount of substance abuse across the globe will become minimal.

Sources: (not in any particular order)
https://www.euda.europa.eu/node/2621_et#:~:text=Results%20showed%20that%2019.4%20%25%20of,reported%20by%2019.3%20%25%20of%20respondents.
https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/data-and-analysis/wdr2024-drug-market-trends.html
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/substance-abuse-chemical-dependency
https://www.un.org/en/observances/end-drug-abuse-day/background#:~:text=At%20the%20CND%20in%20March,and%20peace%2C%20with%20security%20and
https://www.kethea.gr/en/kethea/einai-kethea/#:~:text=KETHEA%20is%20the%20largest%20rehabilitation,was%20set%20up%20in%201983.
https://www.feantsa.org/download/greece-20172928673074328238317.pdf
https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/fighting-the-opioid-crisis–the-case-of-athens–greece

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Julia Callahan

Committee: World Health Organization (WHO)
Topic: Substance Abuse
Country: The United Kingdom
Delegate: Julia Callahan
School: East Grand Rapids HS

Substance abuse refers to the excessive use of drugs for purposes other than what’s intended. This behavior is often hazardous and harmful, putting emotional, financial, and physical burdens on the individuals abusing drugs as well as their family, friends, and society as a whole. Sociodemographic trends, gender, age, and rate of urbanization are all drivers of this issue, and at least 15.3 million persons have drug use disorders. Harmful alcohol use is alarmingly present as well, resulting in 3.3 million deaths each year while less than half the population (38.3%) actually drinks alcohol, meaning that alcohol consumers average 17 liters of pure alcohol annually. In 2008, of all the people in the world ages 15 to 64, 3.5% to 5.7% actively used psychoactive substances, including amphetamines, cocaine, opioids, non-prescribed psychoactive prescription medication, and cannabis, which is the most used stimulant. Countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, Russia, the USA, and Great Britain suffer from the worst drug problems, with issues like high youth unemployment, inflation, and social pressures being some of the leading causes of addiction in these countries. The delivery of the drug, whether injection, inhalation, or ingestion, can alter the physical effects on someone’s body, and the type of drug changes the result as well; however, all drugs misused affect the brain. Drugs cause large amounts of dopamine,e which makes individuals crave it more and more, though continuous and active use creates a codependency. Those who suffer from substance abuse experience academic problems, health problems, mental health problems, disrupted relationships, and overall, it has a negative impact on the person, disrupting their quality of life. The rate of addiction and the number of substance-induced vehicular accidents is a testament to the need for action.

The United Nations’ commitment in 1955, The World Programme of Action for Youth on Drug Abuse (A/RES/50/81), has been a pivotal resolution that has emerged to address the vulnerability of young people to drug abuse and the surplus of consequences from addiction. The international community wanted to place emphasis on reducing drug use and supply of illegal drugs, creating programs that will recognize the nature of substance abuse and the probability of relapse. Resolutions affirming the Commission on Narcotic Drugs and the United Nations International Drug Control Programme assist in this aim. The WPAY resolution had many proposals for action, including pushing youth to participate in drug reduction programs, training on rational use of pharmaceuticals containing narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances, treatment for drug-dependent and alcoholic youths, and cooperating with the private sector, opting for preventative actions. Other UN resolutions and programs on substance abuse include The Global Youth Network, World Drug Campaign, Youth and Drugs: A Global Overview, and the World situation with regard to drug abuse, with particular reference to children and youth. The International Society of Substance Use Professionals “plays a unique role within the substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery support fields by providing a focal point for information and access to professional development opportunities.” The ISSUP works alongside the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the Organization of American States (OAS), and the African Union. Programs such as the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA), the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA), the Society for Prevention Research (SPR), the European Society for Prevention Research (EUSPR), and Applied Prevention Science International (APSI) all helped establish the ISSUP and work towards the same goal of preventing and aiding substance abuse.

In the United Kingdom in 2018 and 2019, there was 7% of young adults had taken a Class A drug, leading to 18,053 hospital admissions due to drug misuse poisoning and 2,917 deaths due to the poisoning. Cannabis, cocaine, and nitrous oxide have been the most commonly used drugs in the UK, with around 2.6 million people actively using cannabis in 2018/19. Substance abuse has impacted the UK’s health services, crime rates, and economy, contributing to mental health problems, homelessness, and drug-related deaths, which have been rising, especially from opioids. The UK has taken serious action against substance abuse, commencing a ten-year program; considering that 300,000 of our people are addicted to heroin and crack cocaine, the UK has provided immediate treatment efforts and support while focusing on the illegal supply of drugs and reducing recreational drug use. The strategic priorities will help combat the issue, including breaking drug supply chains, delivering world-class treatment and recovery services, and achieving a shift in demand for recreational drugs, all to combat substance abuse. The UK pushes for similar adoption of our ten year plan, pushing the priorities to fix overall the problem plaguing our country and world.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Shyla Chadda

World Health Organization
Substance Abuse
Dominion of Canada
Shyla Chadda
Forest Hills Eastern High School

Substance abuse is a global problem that affects millions through the harm of addiction. Substance use has been increasing over the past decade. According to the United Nations, the global estimate is 292 million people ages 15 to 64 who have been involved in drug use in the past year. This is an increase of 20% more than the earlier decade. In 2022, cannabis was estimated with 228 million users in the past year and was the most-used drug globally, followed by opioids with 60 million, and cocaine and ecstasy with around 20 million. Over time, the spectrum of drugs and substances has expanded, increasing the harmful consequences globally. Disease and other health factors are connected with drug abuse, especially through opioid use. Other health risk components include drug use disorders, which can be caused by substance abuse as well. 64 million people worldwide were affected by drug use disorders in 2022, with an increase of 3% compared to 2018 according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). WHO Director-General, Dr Ghebreyesus stated that “Substance use severely harms individual health, increasing the risk of chronic diseases, mental health conditions, and tragically resulting in millions of preventable deaths every year…”

In Canada, it is estimated that about 21% of the population will fall into addiction. Alcohol was the most commonly known substance, followed by Marijuana, with more than 40% of Canadians using it in their lifetime. Canada has been in its prime of substance abuse throughout its history. Since 2016, more than 38,500 people have died from opioid toxicity. Data has occurred of a total of 47,162 apparent opioid toxicity deaths reported between January 2016 and March 2024. Canada has taken measures to mitigate this through releasing programs such as the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS). This has been used to create an approach to promote public health and safety. The Canadian Government has taken the initiative to include harm reduction, treatment, and recovery strategies for those in need of substance abuse as well as bringing prevention and education. This includes drug-checking services and data collection on substance-related harms and illegal drug supply. In addition, The Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) implements developing policies and programs related to mitigating the effects and use of substance abuse. CPHA was also involved in advocating the legalization of cannabis in 2018 to further improve public health. Canada continues to see harm from other substances such as tobacco and alcohol. According to the Canadian Costs of Substance Use and Harms 2007-2020 report, substance use cost Canadians more than $49 billion and led to the loss of 200 lives per day in 2020. Furthermore, in 2020 tobacco was the leading cause of substance deaths with 46,336 people. Then followed by alcohol with 17,098 deaths, and opioid use with 6,491 deaths. These deaths also increased costs to the health care system including hospitalizations, emergency visits, and specialized treatment for substance abuse symptoms. This amounted to $3.14 billion in 2020. WHO has taken action by supplementing many programs such as SDG 3.5 and the Global Alcohol Action Plan 2022-2030 to reduce substance abuse and increase global health security, which has been supported by Canada. The CDSS response is to increase public safety from substance abuse by prioritizing children and youth who are more at risk of the negative impacts of substance abuse.

Canada recommends a public health-focused strategy to reduce substance abuse by implementing government programs and fostering awareness of the issue. Furthermore, The Canadian Drug Policy Coalition (CDPC) has created a Legal Regulation plan to promote public health and reduce harm. Additionally, Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) also provides funding to other levels of government organizations in Canada. Canada advocates for a global standpoint, to follow these policies by creating an organization to develop public health and safety for all. These policies can be funded by those willing and can be further regulated by those with a stronger economy to help vulnerable nations. Canada recognizes the issue of substance abuse along with the importance of global health security and is willing to solve the concern.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Niger
Delegate Name: Avery Messamore

Committee: ECOSOC (WHO)
Topic: Substance Abuse
Country: Niger
School: Mattawan High School
Delegate: Avery Messamore

Substance abuse pertains to the dangerous consumption of drugs. This is an issue that not only affects the individual but their family and society as well. Niger is a common trade route for drug trafficking which inevitably has led to higher consumption of cocaine in the country. Cannabis is also widely used throughout West and Central Africa, with usage rates from 5.2% to 13.5%.

To combat health issues, Niger has encouraged the creation and use of health-related startups and telemedicine. Telemedicine is a means of delivering healthcare diagnostics and support through technology, such as video calls or audio calls with patients. Niger has in the past signed an agreement with UNAIDS to prevent and stop the transmission of HIV. With the support of The Global Fund Niger has implemented HIV testing, especially for infants, in health facilities. Currently, only 1% of Niger’s population has HIV. Niger has implemented training on how to treat tuberculosis and HIV at one-stop facilities, thus helping reduce the spread of these illnesses.

Niger is willing to continue working with international forces in order to crack down on drug use and related illnesses. By training healthcare providers on how to treat severe illnesses, such as HIV and tuberculosis, they will be better equipped to diagnose and treat the public; therefore, the disease rate and prevalence will decrease. Niger would support making healthcare and treatment more accessible to the public domain, for many citizens are either unaware that they have deadly viruses or don’t know where they can go for help. Once the public has further access to treatment then the spread of the virus or disease will diminish.

References:
https://www.afro.who.int/news/innovating-health-niger
https://www.afro.who.int/node/5696
https://africa.ocindex.net/country/niger#:~:text=The%20trafficking%20of%20cocaine%20through,trafficking%20route%20for%20Moroccan%20kif.
https://borgenproject.org/nigers-hiv-aids/#:~:text=Niger%20is%20a%20landlocked%20country,2003%20to%20651%20in%202012.
https://www.afro.who.int/countries/niger/news/combined-hiv-tb-testing-care-curbing-infection-and-mortality-niger

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: India
Delegate Name: Evalea Brown

India has seen a rise in substance abuse in recent years. Alarming amounts of addiction to alcohol, marijana, heroin, as well as, other illegal substances. These drugs affect millions of people directly relating to physical and mental health concerns. This in turn is creating social and security concerns for their population. India recognizes the importance of combating these issues, and is taking steps to eliminate them.

India currently has The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1985 a collection of laws restricting the use, sale, and possession of certain drugs. Additionally India has recently implemented the inclusion of information on substance abuse to be a mandatory part of school curriculums. India also has created facilities and programs designed to help people struggling with addiction.

As India continues to recognize the rise of addiction and illicit use of drugs, India plans to create additional laws to fight against the use of illegal drugs. Stronger punishment and reduction of the criminal element is crucial in the effort to reduce the supply and demand of these harmful drugs. India also is looking to continually elevate education to help people struggling with addiction hoping to reduce the demand.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Maizie Van Ausdall

GLIMUN 2024
ECOSOC: World Health Organization
Country: Australia
Delegate: Maizie Van Ausdall
Fishers High School

Topic B: Substance Abuse
Australia has one of the highest percentages of individuals who use recreational and illicit drugs, making it an issue of upmost concern for the country’s delegation. The rate of substance abuse in Australia has increased since the early 2000s. The most commonly used illicit drug is cannabis, which is available for medicinal with prescriptions, with cocaine and ecstasy coming second and third with around half as much usage among the population and much more infrequently. In 2022, there were 1,693 deaths caused by drug use, and the majority of these were caused by opioids. As with worldwide substance abuse as a whole, the majority, around 2/3s of these deaths were male and 32%, the highest percent, occurred among individuals with lower socio-economic statuses or those living in disadvantaged areas. Occurring more commonly than deaths are hospitalizations, with 135,000 in 2021-2022. For Australia, the most prevalent and harmful substances that are abused tend to be opioids and amphetamines, mostly methamphetamines. Opioid abuse frequently occurs by abuse of prescription pain killers. Statistically 1 out of every 10 people prescribed an opioid become addicted and 69% of drug related deaths in 2015 were caused by prescription drugs. For opioids in particular, Australia advocates for a solution comprised of better regulation and surveillance of prescribed drugs in all countries that have populations struggling with prescription drug abuse disorder.
The Australian government is focused on minimizing substance abuse by using three pillars: Demand Reduction, Supply Reduction, and Harm Reduction. The way to achieve these goals is through initiatives comprised of elements such as drug treatment programs and awareness campaigns, prevention of production of illegal drugs, and various harm prevention programs, respectively. For the harm reductions pillar, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has been testing and incorporating leading programs that provide services to prevent spread of infectious diseases, like HIV and Hepatitis, by offering services such as Needle and Syringe programs, which are intending to prevent sharing of needles and syringes, supervised drug consumption facilities and injecting centers, and Drug Checking Sites, areas where an individual can test their drugs to ensure the purity of drugs and pills. This services, particularly the Needle and Syringe program, have proven to be successful in reducing abuse. The delegation of Australia highly recommends the incorporation of these programs by other countries who are able.
Australia believes that the best approach to ending substance abuse is to acknowledge and reconcile the uneven distribution of drug abuse amongst males and individuals living in disadvantaged areas, respectively. In order to do this for all countries suffering from high drug abuse rates in their populations, Australia recommends the integration of programs, such as those mentioned above. Such programs can prove to be very expensive, especially rehabilitation centers, making it the duty of all countries a part of the WHO to work together and contribute for a better future for all.

Sources

Topic B:
https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/illicit-use-of-drugs/illicit-drug-use
https://www.addictioncenter.com/addiction/addiction-in-australia/?scrlybrkr=e447704f
https://www.thecabinsydney.com.au/blog/why-is-australia-the-1-country-for-drug-abusers/
https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/alcohol/alcohol-tobacco-other-drugs-australia/contents/harm-minimisation/harm-reduction

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Karmen Rozelle

Venezuela knows how much drug abuse hurts individuals and families, especially in communities struggling with poverty. Being a country that’s often used to move illegal drugs, Venezuela has dealt with growing problems like violence, corruption, and weakened communities. To fight substance abuse, Venezuela believes it’s important to take strong action at home and to work closely with other countries.
In Venezuela, substance abuse is worsened by a lack of mental health services, economic hardships, and the influence of drug trafficking networks. Young people are especially vulnerable. The country also struggles to provide enough healthcare and resources to prevent and treat addiction. Venezuela believes this issue should be seen as a public health problem, not just a criminal one.
Venezuela is focused on improving education and prevention programs to help people understand the dangers of drug use. Raising awareness through public campaigns and making treatment and rehab more accessible are top priorities. The country also believes in supporting people recovering from addiction by helping them get an education and find jobs so they can rebuild their lives.
Venezuela believes it’s important to work with neighboring countries to fight drug trafficking. This includes sharing information, strengthening border security, and coordinating efforts to stop the flow of illegal drugs. Venezuela is also focused on tackling organized crime and corruption, which play a big role in driving the drug trade and hurting communities. By focusing on education, prevention, and treatment instead of punishment can help create safer and healthier communities. Venezuela is dedicated to doing its part and working with other countries to address substance abuse.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Israel
Delegate Name: Sofija Dainelis

City High School
Substance abuse is a sickening issue that plagues the world. The increase in the use of drugs especially synthetic drugs has not only increased substance-caused death, but also cases of disease transmitted through the sharing of DNA, such as AIDS, and HIV. In Isreal 1 in 4 have increased their substance use. In 2021 there were 80,000 recorded deaths due to overdose on narcotics, however, due to religious practice, the country has one of the lowest autopsy rates among high-income countries, making it difficult to estimate how many actually die of these causes. Overall concern for substance use in Israel is increasing, especially since the war has started, and some professionals have expressed concern for an epidemic.
According to an article by Isreal Times, Isreal is on the verge of an opioid epidemic. The article, published April 30, 2023 states that Israel was leading the world in opioid consumption per capita. Since the war in Israel began, substance abuse has become an even larger issue. An account from Nir Beizer says “It’s just a way to escape from reality, this whole thing.”- the times of Isreal. A study occurring in Antanya, a central city in Israel found that since the events of October 7, 2023, addictive substance use rates have risen by around 25%. In 1988 the Isreal Anti-drug Authority (IADA) was created, they help monitor, as well as create policies that help to protect the country from substance abuse. They are responsible for fighting substance abuse in Israel, as well as collecting data on growing issues.
Israel follows a harm reduction policy enforced and implemented by the IADA. this plan has adopted a number of resources, however it mainly focuses on the use of injectable drugs. Some of the programs offered include methadone maintenance treatment, buprenorphine maintenance treatment, and needle and syringe exchange programs. They also have more specialized clinics for those in the frequent drug scene, including a health clinic, emergency housing for female sex workers, and first-step programs. Harm reduction programs offer support and maintenance for opioid use, and aim to de-stigmatize, and prevent discrimination against past abusers, as well as focussing on problemed populations, such as adolescents. However, substance use is not decriminalized and is punishable by up to 3 years in prison in the case of the use of cannabis.
In cases of countries with lower issues concerning substance abuse, there are high focuses on the absence of extreme response, harm reduction, and controlled access to medicine. While Israel is doing somewhat well with Harm reduction measures, it could be made more accessible. Although it is important to work with problemed groups, they should widen the scope of treatment, focusing more on treating the common population, than just those who are statistically more at risk. They also move in the direction of decriminalization, although that is an extreme measure, people will be more likely to seek help without fear of consequence. As for access to medicine, opioids are generally offered in government-controlled medical centers, offering accessible pain relief to those who need it. Although this could make it easier for people to become addicted, it does keep people from searching for other sources of pain relievers.

https://www.timesofisrael.com/now-worlds-no-1-opioid-consumer-per-capita-israel-faces-addiction-epidemic/ -substance abuse
https://www.timesofisrael.com/israel-sees-sharp-rise-in-addiction-amid-ongoing-gaza-war/ – substance abuse
https://www.euda.europa.eu/countries/israel_en – substance
https://www.voanews.com/a/addictions-on-the-rise-in-wartime-israel/7737994.html
https://www.taubcenter.org.il/en/research/opioid-epidemic/
https://ijhpr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13584-019-0343-3#:~:text=The%20leading%20formal%20drug%20policy,Treatment%20and%20Rehabilitation%2C%20and%20Prevention.
https://nida.nih.gov/international/abstracts/israel-national-cannabis-policy#:~:text=In%20accordance%20with%20the%20Israeli,between%20criminal%20and%20administrative%20responses.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9876650/

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Bangladesh
Delegate Name: Sophie Roberts

Sophie Roberts
World Health Organization
Substance Abuse
Bangladesh
Mattawan High School

Substance abuse disorders affect many people worldwide, and they have led to a significant increase in deaths and illnesses in the past decade. There are an estimated 2.6 million deaths per year worldwide due to alcohol, and an additional 0.6 million due to psychoactive drugs. Substance abuse can harm families socially and economically. It can also increase someone’s lifetime risk of noncommunicable disease, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. Additionally, injectable drugs contribute to the spread of bloodborne pathogens like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C due to contaminated needles and unsanitary conditions.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3.5 is strengthening the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, and there are several UN resolutions focused on that goal. In 2020, the General Assembly passed the resolution “International cooperation to address and counter the world drug problem.” The resolution emphasizes that substance abuse is a shared global problem, and urges that member states cooperate to address substance abuse and its underlying causes. In 2024, the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs issued “Promoting recovery and related support services for people with drug use disorders.” This resolution called on member states to promote and fund addiction treatment facilities and support financial stability for people in recovery and their families.

2.88% of Bangladeshis who attend general practice checkups have substance abuse disorders, and that rate is likely higher in people who do not seek regular medical care. The top drugs of abuse in Bangladesh are amphetamines, cannabis, pethidine (an opiate), and phensedyl (a cough medication). Bangladesh started its war on drugs in 2015 and has focused on tackling the illegal drug trade. In the process, they’ve stopped drug dealers and suppliers from taking advantage of vulnerable populations. As well as tackling the source of drugs, the Bangladeshi government is dedicated to treating substance abuse and its associated harms. The Bangladeshi public healthcare system created an addiction treatment center in Dhaka, with regional centers around the country, However, the system only has a total of 199 beds at dedicated rehabilitation facilities, and many people with substance abuse disorders in Bangladesh cannot afford treatment at private facilities. Bangladesh has also adopted a national harm reduction policy by creating drop-in centers offering needles and syringes, HIV testing, STD infection management, and addiction outreach services. Bangladesh has also demonstrated its dedication to fighting substance abuse worldwide by coauthoring the resolution “International cooperation to address and counter the world drug problem.”

The delegation of Bangladesh advocates for capacity-building in drug rehabilitation facilities, the expansion of harm reduction policies, and increasing global awareness about substance abuse. Many developing countries have few public drug rehabilitation facilities, leaving limited options for people with substance abuse disorders. This delegation emphasizes the importance of allocating global health funds to substance abuse rehabilitation centers in low- and lower-middle-income countries. Bangladesh also recognizes the importance of managing the transmission of infections due to injectable drugs, and believes that member states should expand the reach of harm-reduction centers, with services such as STD testing and clean needles and syringes. Global health funding and NGOs can assist in expanding harm-reduction centers to developing nations. Bangladesh also emphasizes the importance of spreading global awareness about drug abuse and its consequences, especially in impoverished areas. This delegation also believes that increasing the consequences of illegal drug dealing will reduce the spread of drugs to vulnerable populations. The delegation of Bangladesh calls for the United Nations to collaborate and make substance abuse treatment, harm reduction, and education available to all communities.

References:
https://nimh.gov.bd/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/01-Substance-abuse.pdf
https://www.cnn.com/2018/06/08/asia/bangladesh-drug-war-intl/index.html
https://hri.global/publications/harm-reduction-information-note-bangladesh/
https://www.who.int/news/item/25-06-2024-over-3-million-annual-deaths-due-to-alcohol-and-drug-use-majority-among-men
https://www.cdc.gov/persons-who-inject-drugs/about/index.html#:~:text=A%20deadly%20consequence%20of%20the,rates%20among%20at%2Drisk%20populations.
https://www.unodc.org/documents/commissions/CND/Drug_Resolutions/2020-2029/2024/Res_67_1.pdf
https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/global-health
https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/3-good-health-and-well-being/

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: China
Delegate Name: Anderson Dadey

Topic B: Substance Abuse

China has had an interesting history with Substance abuse. The first major event that caused substance abuse to explode in China was the Opium war that was caused by China making Opium illegal due to a large amount of its population becoming addicted to it after its introduction by the British and other western powers in an attempt to increase demand for the substance within China. China eventually lost both Opium wars and the West successfully addicted the Chinese populus to Opium. However after decolonization China was considered a drug free country from the 1950’s to the 1980’s. Substance abuse became a problem in China during the late 1980’s and reached its peak during 2005 with over 1,000,000 registered drug abusers forcing the country to respond to these issues in many different ways. In recent years China has had a significant decline in substance abuse with an over 20% decrease in registered drug abusers from 2022 to 2023 with less than a tenth of a percent of China’s population registered as drug abusers.

China believes that the best way to combat the substance abuse crisis is to implement campaigns such as “Care for Drug Users” to reduce the demand for drugs and set up drug free rehabilitation services for people struggling with substance abuse. Not dehumanizing substance abusers and creating places where they can go to get help from the government to start rehabilitation. And an extremely effective way to prevent substance abuse is by cracking down on drug trafficking through increased border control and more substantial checks for all imports. China also wants for greater and more abundant treatments and preventative measures such as education of the risks of these substances and how some people are predisposed to being more susceptible to becoming addicted to heavy substances. China calls for the advance of research into treatments and even substitute substances that are less addictive in the eventual hope to wean people off these substances entirely. Finally China hopes that every nation can work together and share data that will hopefully cause an end to the substance abuse crisis.

Works Cited
CONSULATE-GENERAL OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA IN LOS ANGELES. “Office of National Narcotics Control Commission.” China Drug Situation Report 2022, 28 June 2023, http://losangeles.china-consulate.gov.cn/eng/topnews/202306/t20230628_11104750.htm. Accessed 27 November 2024.
Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in New York. “China’s Narcotics Control Achievements over the Past Five Years.” China’s Narcotics Control Achievements over the Past Five Years, 1 September 2022, http://newyork.china-consulate.gov.cn/eng/xw/202209/t20220901_10759279.htm. Accessed 27 November 2024.
Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America. “China Drug Situation Report 2023.” Office of National Narcotics Control Commission, 19 June 2024, http://us.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zggs/202406/t20240620_11438701.htm#:~:text=By%20the%20end%20of%202023,%25%20year%2Don%2Dyear. Accessed 27 November 2024.
Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America. “Introduction to China’s Successful Efforts in Drug Control.” The Chinese government places great importance on drug control, 5 July 2023, http://us.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zggs/202307/t20230706_11108971.htm#:~:text=China%20encourages%20drug%20users%20to,and%20prevention%20measures%20are%20implemented. Accessed 27 November 2024.
National Library of Medicine. “Comparison of drug abuse in Germany and China.” PubMed Central, 28 October 2007, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7091797/. Accessed 27 November 2024.
United Nation Office on Drugs and Crime. “Drug dependence treatment & care.” United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2016, https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/treatment-and-care/index.html. Accessed 27 November 2024.
United Nations. “Tackling the global drug crisis.” un.org, 2024, https://www.un.org/en/global-issues/drugs#:~:text=To%20achieve%20this%2C%20drug%20treatment,as%20well%20as%20their%20communities. Accessed 27 November 2024.
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. “UNODC and the response to drugs.” unodc.org, 2010, https://www.unodc.org/lpo-brazil/en/drogas/index.html. Accessed 27 November 2024.
US Department of State. “The Opening to China Part I: the First Opium War, the United States, and the Treaty of Wangxia, 1839–1844.” OFFICE OF THE HISTORIAN, 2016, https://history.state.gov/milestones/1830-1860/china-1. Accessed 27 November 2024.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Sierra Leone
Delegate Name: Matthew Gascon

Sierra Leone, like the rest of the world, is trying to handle an increasing crisis of substance abuse. Due to socio-economic hardship and the lingering effects of the 1991 to 2002 civil war, abuse of potentially harmful substances like alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs is rising. This is especially true for young people in Sierra Leone. Socio-economic hardship has fueled more young people to turn to elicit substances for relief, leading to many deaths. Also, Sierra Leone has had to deal with a new synthetic drug called “kush” since it appeared on the scene 4 years ago. “Kush” was cheap, so it’s accessible to youth in Sierra Leone and other West African countries. The widespread use of “kush” and other illicit substances has led to a burden on the healthcare system.
To fight against the growing wave of illegal substance use, Sierra Leone has implemented many initiatives to curb widespread use in partnership, with local, regional, and international organizations. Public awareness and advocacy campaigns have been introduced that educate the population(especially the youth) about the dangers of illegal substance use by informing people of the physical, psychological, and social consequences. In addition, the government is expanding mental health treatment and drug rehabilitation centers, but plans are limited due to costs and economic hardship.
To prevent people from turning to drugs in the first place, ensuring access to education and employment opportunities for youths can deter illicit substance use. Additionally, Sierra Leone plans to improve mental health education and destigmatize seeking help for these issues. This is intertwined with continuing to improve and expand treatment facilities to ensure easier access to mental health care. By having strong partnerships between local, regional, and international organizations like the World Health Organization, and by getting additional funding as a developing nation to assist with these issues, Sierra Leone can more effectively fight the substance abuse epidemic the entire world is currently facing.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Viet Nam
Delegate Name: Sabrina Green

Substance abuse has been a prominent and continuous problem all throughout Vietnam. Drug addiction and alcohol abuse have harmed Vietnam’s health and economy badly. Substance abuse issues have led to massive losses for many families all around, major public health frights, and citizens who take drugs. The increase in opioid addiction has caused numerous health crises. The loss of healthcare resources and affecting the community’s health. Substance abuse disorders can range from mild to severe and can be fatal to anyone. Organizations like the WHO and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have helped many countries by supporting prevention programs and treatment services. This is a global issue because substance abuse can spread across borders, negatively affecting everyone at a fast rate.
Vietnam is serious about tackling substance abuse. Vietnam has adopted a comprehensive approach that looks at human health, social factors, and economic impacts together. Vietnam has greatly improved rehabilitation services, enhanced surveillance of substance abuse trends, and run many public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse. Internationally, Vietnam works with large international groups such as the WHO and UNODC, participating in treaties and conventions. Even though Vietnam has made progress, the country knows there’s more to do. Vietnam believes they will be ready to collaborate globally to improve defenses against substance abuse.
Vietnam suggests several efforts to fight substance abuse. First, countries need more funding. Things that need more funding include rehabilitation services and research. Better early detection and response systems are crucial to stop substance abuse with fewer deaths, so everyone should develop strong surveillance and reporting tools. Public education should also be expanded to teach better preventive practices. International collaboration with many new countries is key—sharing knowledge about many different ideas, necessary resources, and safe practices can help every country’s citizens. All countries around the world should support each other as well as provide technical help to countries in need that are struggling with substance abuse. Together, all countries can build a healthier world and reduce the impact of substance abuse on health and economies.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Fionnoula Walsh

Substance abuse is a grave issue facing the world today. It is defined as the excessive use of legal or illegal drugs and alcohol. It has varying patterns in every region that depend on cultural, economic, and political circumstances. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the World Health Organization have worked around the clock in an attempt to aid the issue. For example, the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) was created by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which oversees international drug control treaties. Furthermore, UNODC has created an annual World Drug Report that provides an account of the development of the worldwide drug crisis, from a global perspective.
The delegation of Türkiye believes that it plays a major influence in the battle against the illegal drug trafficking crisis. Turkey has supported all previous resolutions that the UN has passed with respect to drug control. It has also enforced Article 17 of the United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, which declares that all drug traffickers must be extradited for prosecution in their home country. Additionally, Türkiye is concerned regarding incoming Syrian refugees and a potential increase in illicit drug trafficking that may stem from the refugee crisis. This is of concern to the Turkish government because refugees may turn to substances to cope with the inability of infrastructure to support them. A further concern is the overall security of the nation and the possible smuggling of illegal substances through their borders.
One potential solution to the issue of substance abuse around all regions of the world is an increase in border security. This could include advanced technology around high pedestrian areas, such as surveillance cameras, radar systems, and ground sensors. An improvement in border security in all countries can aid the global issue of drug trafficking, in turn improving the topic of substance abuse. Moreover, wider access to rehabilitation could decrease the rate of drug abuse. 1 in 17 people aged 15-64 have used a drug in the past 12 months, so offering affordable, easy-access therapy/rehabilitation could decrease substance abuse globally.

Works Cited
Johnson, Kimberly, et al. “The Global Movement towards a Public Health Approach to Substance Use Disorders.” Annals of Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 2022, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9262358/.
“Türkiye’s Efforts Against The Drug Problem.” Türkiye’s Efforts against the Drug Problem / Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Türkiye, www.mfa.gov.tr/turkiye_s-efforts-against-the-drug-problem.en.mfa. Accessed 27 Nov. 2024.
UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION AGAINST ILLICIT TRAFFIC IN NARCOTIC DRUGS AND PSYCHOTROPIC SUBSTANCES, United Nations,

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Thailand
Delegate Name: Hana Shabani

World Health Organization
Substance Abuse
Thailand
Hana Shabani

Thailand is officially committed to respond to a new generation of global threat in substance abuse as a problem with a serious impact on the health of communities, welfare of populations, and stability of nations. Thai people have recently developed a vice in the use of banned substances such as methamphetamines, opioids and alcohol. The country understands the need to have a broad, cross sectorial approach to manage this epidemic that involves prevention, care, reduction of the adverse effects and law.

Drug abuse in Thailand is rampant, and the most commonly used drug are heroin and alcohol. The trend of Methamphetamine has been made more alarming as there are reports that show an increase in manufacture and distribution of the drug in that area. The problem of opioids includes the recreational use of prescription drugs for the treatment of pain and heroin addiction also poses a high risk factor. People still drink and continue to experience several health issues that include physical and mental. This has otherwise been accompanied by rise in problems of poverty, unemployment and violence and is a leading cause of high prices in the health sector in Thailand. These are factors which the country needs to address, through evidence based prevention, treatment and rehabilitation programs.

The Thailand has a made great progress in handling the use of drugs through variety of policies and programs. With regards to the problem the government has worked on preventing the spread with interventions such as awareness creation and education of the youths and other at risk groups. Mental health treatment and rehabilitation have been advanced but remain mostly inclusive; inpatient and outpatient care have grown but remain limited outside the large cities. Toward opioid use also Thailand has included use of harm reduction strategies. It has permitted needle exchange programs and opioid substitution therapy, despite of they are crucial in stopping the transmission of HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C among drug consumers. Even to this there are efforts being made while there is still much that can be done in the area of access and something like scarce resources.

Thailand urges the international community to step effort to solve the problem of drug in the world and to get better treatment in facing drug abuse. We stand with the WHO in its drive to encourage the use of evidence-based prevention strategies; and to link mental health and substance abuse treatment services. We also emphasize that the measures like needle exchange and opioid substitution therapy remain an imperative involving tools for minimizing health risks attendant to the use of drugs. Thailand actively encourages the no stigma approach to drug dependency, and the country would like drug dependency victims to get sparing and appropriate healthcare service responses. Thus, requiring the WHO and every nation, which is its member, to pay more attention to priorities of the public health and human rights concerning substance abuse.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Ghana
Delegate Name: Jack Bredeweg

World Health Organization (WHO)
Substance Abuse
Ghana
Jack Bredeweg
Ghana’s Stance on Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a huge issue both in the Republic of Ghana, but also in the World. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, in 2021 there are 296 million people who use drugs. Furthermore, according to the National Library of Medicine, 1.25 million Ghanaians use drugs. Because there are only 34.12 million people living in Ghana that means 3.66% of Ghanaians use drugs. Ghana recognizes that substance abuse hampers progress by compromising the productivity of its workforce, straining its healthcare system, and contributing to social unrest. This is not a new problem to the United Nations. The UN has created various programs to combat Substance Abuse, such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the International Drug Control Conventions. However, Ghana believes that more needs to be done to combat Substance Abuse because it has a strain on the low and middle class of Ghana and Ghana doesn’t have adequate health facilities to support those who abuse substances.
The Republic of Ghana recognizes substance abuse as a pressing issue. The misuse of alcohol, cannabis, and other illicit drugs has been an increasing concern, especially within the lower and middle classes of Ghana. The Republic of Ghana has implemented several key pieces of legislation to curb substance abuse, improve access to treatment and raise awareness. However, the Republic of Ghana still needs further support from the international community as new problems such as synthetic drugs and the drug traffickers in West Africa are emergenging. Ghana’s National Drug Control Master Plan is a key component in curbing substance abuse as it collaborates with international partners and focuses on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and law enforcement. On an international level, the Republic of Ghana is a member of multiple organizations, such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
The Republic of Ghana proposes a comprehensive plan to Substance Abuse that emphasizes a balanced strategy of prevention, treatment, law enforcement, and international cooperation. The Republic of Ghana has already seen significant progress through the Drug Control Master Plan. However, issues with the accessibility and availability of rehabilitation centers, public awareness and the rising threat of synthetic drugs still poses a major problem. The Republic of Ghana recommends that the international community prioritize greater support for prevention programs, especially low income populations, and provide technical and financial assistance to strengthen healthcare systems and addiction treatment infrastructure in developing countries. Additionally, the Republic of Ghana suggests that countries in West Africa unite to combat Substance abuse by increasing intelligence sharing on drug traffickers. Through increased collaboration and investment, we can create a world where individuals affected by substance abuse are supported and empowered to lead healthy, productive lives.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Afghanistan
Delegate Name: Reid Osieki

Delegation of Afghanistan
World Health Organization (WHO)
Topic: Substance Abuse

Afghanistan recognizes the devastating impact of substance abuse on individuals, communities, and nations. As one of the largest global producers of opium, Afghanistan faces significant internal challenges related to drug cultivation, trafficking, and consumption. However, the delegation emphasizes that addressing this issue requires a nuanced, context-specific approach that respects Afghanistan’s economic realities and sovereignty.

The delegation advocates for a nationally driven response to substance abuse, prioritizing domestic strategies such as public awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programs, and focused law enforcement measures. While Afghanistan welcomes international assistance, it insists that such support align with its national development programs and avoid undue external influence.
Afghanistan calls for increased technical and financial support from the WHO and other international partners to develop harm reduction strategies, with an emphasis on community based interventions that respect local customs and traditions. The delegation further underscores the urgent need for economic alternatives for those involved in the opium trade and urges WHO member states to support livelihood programs tailored to Afghanistan’s rural population.

At the international level, Afghanistan calls for greater cooperation to address the global demand for narcotics, emphasizing that the narcotics problem cannot be solved solely through supply side measures. The delegation proposes the establishment of a WHO-led platform to share best practices among member states, disrupt trafficking networks, and strengthen the global response to the drug trade.

The delegation firmly opposes the politicization of substance abuse issues and stresses that solutions should be grounded in humanitarian principles and aligned with international frameworks, particularly the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Afghanistan reiterates its commitment to SDG 3—ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being—but emphasizes that progress must be pursued in a way that strengthens national sovereignty and avoids one-size
fits-all approaches.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Iran
Delegate Name: Hadley Abrutyn

Committee: WHO
Topic: Substance Abuse
Country: Iran
School: Roeper
Delegate Name: Hadley Abrutyn

Substance abuse, which is the use of illegal drugs or the use of prescription or over the counter drugs or alcohol for purposes other than those for which they are intended, continues to be a significant public health issue globally, with an estimated 292 million people using drugs in 2022. The Islamic Republic of Iran is no exception, facing an opioid epidemic fueled by proximity to major drug-producing regions and increasing methamphetamine use. The Iranian government has implemented progressive policies in response to this, including needle exchange programs, methadone maintenance treatment, and providing free treatment for opioid addiction. However, some challenges remain, such as limited access to treatment in rural areas and the social stigma that often prevents individuals from seeking help.

The World Health Organization (WHO) can play a crucial role in supporting Iran’s ongoing efforts by providing technical assistance, expanding access to naloxone to prevent overdose deaths, and enhancing community outreach programs that address both the health and social drivers of substance abuse.

Iran’s approach is rooted in its commitment to both public health and social rehabilitation. Policies such as offering free opioid treatment and a more lenient stance on drug-related offenses compared to other countries in the region have provided a foundation for tackling addiction.

However, to further enhance the effectiveness of these policies, it is essential that the WHO partners with Iran to improve the availability of treatment in underserved regions and work to reduce the stigma around substance use.

The WHO can support these efforts by offering evidence-based treatment models and aiding in the sharing of successful harm reduction strategies from other countries. Additionally, given the Islamic Republic’s cultural and political context, the WHO’s initiatives must be sensitive to local customs and values while still promoting effective drug treatment and preventative measures.
To effectively address the issue of substance abuse, Iran must continue to build on its existing harm reduction framework while expanding access to treatment and preventive measures. By working together, Iran and the international community can make significant progress in reducing the harms associated with drug use and improving public health outcomes in the region. First, strengthening community-based awareness programs is crucial to educate the population, particularly youth, about the risks of substance abuse. Second, Iran advocates for the establishment of regional drug monitoring and prevention systems to address the growing problem of illicit drug trafficking in the middle east. Finally, Iran calls for the inclusion of substance abuse as a priority area in development assistance programs, ensuring that low-income countries receive the necessary resources to address these interconnected challenges. Iran emphasizes its commitment to combating substance abuse through national and regional strategies, and calls on the international community to support these efforts. By promoting collaboration and dissecting the root causes of substance abuse, Iran aims to protect its population and promote healthier communities.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Cuba
Delegate Name: Emily Ochieng

WHO
Cuba
Emily Ochieng
Topic B: Substance Abuse
Cannabis and Cocaine are the two most consumed drugs in Cuba. Cuba is often used as a key drug trafficking route for transporting drugs from Central America to the US by boat or air. Some of that Cocaine transported through Cuba makes its way to the U.S. and can partially account for the 29,918 deaths just this past year.

Cuba’s increased transportation of drugs really started occurring in the late 90’s, where Cuban officials stated that’s when its entrepreneurs “discovered how much that’s[cocaine]worth.” More recently, however, drugs in Cuba have been affecting its youth, with Cuba stating that its youth is “the most vulnerable group.” Cuba has a strict policy on drugs and can punish the possession or trafficking of illicit drugs with 4-30 years in prison, life sentencing, or the death penalty. Though Cuba has taken a tough control on drugs, it has also stated earlier this year that illegal drug use is rising.

Cuba would like to see a decrease in drug usage among the youth as it prides itself in the control of illicit traffic and usage of narcotics. Cuba looks forward to aligning itself with other nations with like-minded goals in stopping the spread of substance abuse.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Republic of Korea
Delegate Name: Olivia Bryan

Committee: WHO (ECOSOC)
Topic: Substance Abuse
Delegate: Olivia Bryan
School: Williamston High school
Country: The Republic of Korea

Substance Abuse is a longstanding issue globally. Since the introduction of substance issues, presumably before written record, people have discussed possible solutions and seen a variety of results. In the 1920s the United States enforced prohibition, effectively prohibiting the distribution and consumption of alcohol with the intention of reducing the abuse of the drink. Certain countries such as Afghanistan, Iran, Egypt, and other primarily Muslim countries still have conditional prohibition in effect. Other countries have stricter laws on the abuse of drugs. In countries such as China, Vietnam, and Malaysia drug charges can be punishable by execution. According to the UNODC roughly 64 million people are affected b y drug-related issues each year. Unfortunately, it is estimated that only 1 in 11 people see treatment. Women are statistically less likely to receive help at 1 in 18 women vs 1 in 7 men. The introduction of new synthetic drugs on the market only increases the problems faced by the global population. As the potency and unknown effects of drugs are constantly amped, the possibility of drug epidemics and overdoses only increases.
South Korea is rightfully strict on the importation, use, and distribution of drugs within the country. The country has one of the strictest laws and regulations on substances. All prescription medications are heavily regulated and controlled within the country. This includes medications/ recreational use of any Marijuana, CBD, or Hemp-derived products. South Korea has extremely strict laws on substances brought into the country. All drugs containing narcotics, marijuana, amphetamine, CBD, and hemp will be cause for deportation and/or arrest. Korea also does not allow any food item containing poppy seeds. Despite Korea’s firm laws on substances, the country still sees a fair share of substance abuse cases. An estimated 400,000 people were thought to have accessed and used illegal drugs in 2024. The Republic of Korea designates 416 million dollars to treating drug addictions each year. In recent years the country as well as the globe has seen an upward trend of drug related cases. South Korea, as of now, has 31 hospitals specifically for drugs and substance cases. However 13 of those did not see a single patient in the recent year.
Korea would like to see a sharp decrease in substance related issues, and would assume other countries do as well. The Republic of Korea sees the strict laws already in place within its borders as beneficial and effective overall. Compared to countries with looser regulations Korea sees far less cases of Substance abuse. South Korea believes this matter should be of the utmost importance of the United Nations and this delegation. As well as that, Korea sees benefits in starting at the source of the problem as this is an issue that affects every country around the globe. Korea looks forward to working with countries who feel the same urgency to address this topic. South Korea is ready to welcome all collaboration and invites the idea of further UN suggestions.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Russian Federation
Delegate Name: Saatvik Raman

Substance Abuse is an important topic for the World Health Organization to address because it can lead to a major decrease in health, which can also lead to the decrease in life expectancy and can cause emotional and physical harm. Some examples of substance abuse are overdose of drugs, alcohol, and other substances. Some effects of substance abuse are severe illness, sickness, and death. Substance abuse is the cause of many deaths in the world, which in conclusion, means that it is important to address.

Secondly, the Russian Federation has done many actions to help prevent substance abuse. Some of these actions include creating laws against it, incarcerating drug users, preventing the onset of drug use, etc. They also have the Federal Service for Drug Control to control the use of drugs. Although Russia has many ways to prevent drug abuse, alcohol consumption was at an all time high in 2023. In 2022, Russians purchased 2.2 billion liters of alcohol, and in 2023, they purchased 2.3 billion liters of alcohol. This increase in alcohol consumption leads to a premature death.

The Russian Federation substance abuse rate has decreased in times as in 2022, over 717 people per 100,000 people were using substances, and in 2024, 146 individuals were using substances per 100,000 people. However, one way the Russian Federation could improve would be by decreasing the manufacturing of substances other than prescription drugs from doctors. This would be a way to decrease the way that people use substances illegally, and improve health by using prescribed drugs instead.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: United States of America
Delegate Name: Moon Fenchel

The United States (US) has a complex history in attempting to manage substance abuse. Initiatives were shaped by societal attitudes, medical achievements, and political priorities of the time. Historically, the US implemented punitive measures; this can especially be seen during the “War on Drugs”, Especially with the Anti Drug Abuse Act in the 1980s, which focused on criminalization of racial minorities and internal eradication. While these policies aimed to curb drug trafficking and usage, they often targeted marginalized communities such as African American and impoverished populations. Additionally, these policies didn’t do much to address addiction as a public health issue, especially as approximately 5.8 million people were addicted to opioids such as heroin. These measures neglected the root causes of addiction, which include poverty, trauma, and mental health issues, and framing substance abuse as a moral failing rather than a medical condition. This era sadly deprived public health systems of the resources needed to combat addiction effectively, fostering societal stigma.
In recent years, the US has shifted its substance abuse policies towards a more liberal, forward thinking, and health centered approach. Under the Biden Administration, the 2022 National Drug Control Strategy choses to emphasize harm reduction, expanding access to treatments, and improving data to guide interventions. Key measures include promoting syringe exchange programs and integrating addiction treatment into the criminal justice systems. Biden’s administration seeks to disrupt drug trafficking networks and to collaborate with international organizations to combat synthetic drug abuse. Additionally, integrating substance abuse treatment into the criminal justice system allows prisoners to work on getting clean before leaving prison to hopefully avoid a relapse or further-incarceration. On a global level, the US has worked closely with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse.
Looking to the future, the US plans to focus on expanding healthcare and treatment access for substance addiction. Additionally, it looks to improve harm reduction strategies. Future programs include addressing barriers to care; these can stem from social stigma and financial instability. Additionally, the US will continue to collaborate with WHO and the US Department of Defence to promote global substance abuse management and to ensure alignment with sustainable development goals. The Biden Administration will continue to highlight the importance of tackling the emergence of drugs such as xylazine through advanced surveillance. By aligning efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the US will work to foster a health focused domestic and global approach to substance abuse, ensuring that marginalized communities have access to the resources they need.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Syrian Arab Republic
Delegate Name: Lauren Barteld

Almost 40 million people are affected by a drug use disorder worldwide. The nation of Syria is not exempt from that number. Their people are also greatly affected by the use of illicit drugs. Syria has seen a significant rise in substance abuse, where both prescription and illicit drugs are easily being accessed. Under Syria’s current regime led by president Bashar al-Assad, they became the leading producer and exporter of a highly addictive drug, Captagon. This led to a huge increase in people struggling with addiction not only within the country but also outside of it, where the drug was being exported to. Like many other countries, Syria has concerns surrounding the topic of substance abuse, and they have made attempts to provide help, such as offering treatment and prevention programs.

Therefore, Syria agrees with getting involved with another organization (such as the WHO) to make a positive impact regarding the major issue of substance abuse. They’re aware that ignoring the issue is not an option and that some type of support has to be offered, so the only question now is how should this support be provided. Syria would be open to other approaches by other countries in the international community, as they want to do as much as possible to take care of their citizens.

In the past, one of Syria’s attempts at aiding the pressing issue of substance abuse was taken on by The Syrian Ministry of Health. They allocated a department to treat people with substance addictions within public hospitals, however the department could only aid a small amount of the mass of people who needed the substance help.

While this solution is partially beneficial and effective, there’s just not enough support to help nearly all of the people struggling with substance abuse. Therefore, Syria along with other countries should assemble and, with the help of the World Health Organization, create a plan to offer these support departments throughout many areas in different countries. These support systems would have to be easily accessible by anyone who needs them, in order to truly be effective. They would be able to provide medical help, support, and education on this topic, which will decrease the number of substance use disorders worldwide.

Works Cited:
State.Gov- Sanctions on Financial Facilitators and Illicit Drug Traffickers Supporting Syria’s Assad Regime, 2024
(www.state.gov)
The Washington Institute- Drug Addiction in Syria: A Decades-Long Disease, 2023
(www.washingtoninstitute.org)
National Institutes of Health- A Comprehensive Overview of Substance Abuse Amongst Syrian Individuals in an Addiction Rehabilitation Center, 2023
(www.nih.gov)

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Philippines
Delegate Name: Bobby Young

A major part of our culture here in the Philippines is our nightlife. Our capital city Manila is a prime location for tourists and citizens to get out and have a great night of dancing, socializing, and of course consuming alcoholic beverages. As a matter of fact about 40% of Filipino adults drink alcohol at least once a month (The Philippines’ Blind Spot for Alcohol | Think Global Health, 2023). However, for some of these adults drinking habits take over their life. And just 5 years ago these habits took the lives of 39,802 Filipinos (The Philippines’ Blind Spot for Alcohol | Think Global Health, 2023). The numbers for the years between then and now are shaky but we can estimate that about 40,000 more Filipinos die from alcohol each year (The Philippines’ Blind Spot for Alcohol | Think Global Health, 2023). The Phillipines believe that this number can be significantly reduced by being harder with enforcing identification checks with alcohol purchases as underage drinking is a widespread issue in the Philippines, as 9% of the Philippines population who is between the ages of 15-64 have alcohol abuse issues (Swahn et al., 2013). These issues can start at ages even younger than our legal purchasing age of 18. These numbers are horrific but they do not cover all of our deaths from substance abuse. We can estimate that thousands more Filipinos die from drug overdoses as well each year. We also would like to recognize the prevalence of illegal heroin production and usage throughout Asia and the rest of the world and we hope to make policy to combat the abuse of drugs like heroin. However, we also recognize the amount of deaths caused by overdoses from prescribed drugs and it is in our hopes to equally combat the abuse of illicit and prescribed drugs. We would like to take these three issues into consideration. Alcohol abuse, illicit drug abuse, and prescribed drug abuse.

To combat alcohol abuse we would hope to create a global standard that urges countries to create a system in which the name, age, and address of residence to be reported to local law enforcement with each purchase of any alcoholic beverage in order to track if minors are illegally purchasing alcohol which can help local governments catch fake ID users and catch businesses who do not check for the identification of their customers, to help prevent our children from becoming alcohol abusers in the future. We hope to combat the usage of illicit drugs by extending our education efforts on the dangers of using illicit drugs to schools and workplaces globally, as well as by creating a subcommittee whose task will be to investigate the production of illicit drugs and then report the information found to national drug enforcement agencies in the country where the investigation was conducted to bust the producers of these illicit drugs. We also hope to limit the number of overdoses from prescription drugs by setting an international standard of prescribing drugs in amounts where users of the drug will not be prescribed enough to let them take amounts large enough to become addicted after receiving their first prescription of the drug.

Works Cited:
https://www.thinkglobalhealth.org/article/philippines-blind-spot-alcohol

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10985488/#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20Centers%20for,were%20also%20attributed%20to%20opioids.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3890547/

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Colombia
Delegate Name: Brady Young

In recently decolonized countries, political instability is nearly impossible to stop. Specifically, drug abuse in these young nations has greatly harmed growing communities, governments, and economies. Foreign aid from wealthier nations is fundamental to stopping this epidemic; however, this aid needs to be allocated to the correct area or little will be accomplished. In Colombia, 70% of the world’s cocaine is produced. Since there have been programs against drugs since the 1980s, there has been an immoral view of drug use, however, drug use in Colombia is high and growing. Throughout approximately thirty years, at times with the help of the US, the Colombian government has attempted to stop the production of coca, the most important plant in the creation of cocaine. However, drug cartels such as FARC and The Gulf Clan have prevented the Colombian government from destroying coca.

Currently, the leftist President of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, has proposed the decriminalization of drugs, and Plan Substitution, a process of moving farmers onto new land and providing new crops while paying these farmers. At first, the plan worked, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the Colombian government was unable to finance the project. The Colombian government could not fund over 100,000 families. So, rural farmers swiftly went back to growing coca to sell to drug cartels. Colombia’s ongoing 50-year War on Drugs has only seen defeat despite many attempts to prevent drug use and production.

In other countries, the decriminalization or legalization of drugs has had various effects. In Argentina, a fellow South American nation, in 2009 the Argentinian Supreme Court legalized the use of personal drugs. Now, laws against drugs are toward trafficking and discrete selling to others. The legalization of drugs in Argentina though has only increased drug use with the use of cocaine doubling and marijuana increasing 150 percent in 2017. On the other hand, Switzerland has had a different effect from Argentina. In 1994, Switzerland attempted to decriminalize drugs, legalized the cultivation of plants used for drugs, legalized the possession of drugs, and the availability of purchasing drugs for personal use. Along with this, treatment options for drug abuse were created; needle replacement programs and drug consumption rooms were created. The results were extremely successful. Infections from needle sharing, such as HIV, decreased and the deaths from opioid overdose decreased by 64%.

The next steps in stopping the production of coca seem unclear. Even with US funding, there has been only an increase in coca production. However, actions taken in the past such as Plan Substitution have worked in the short term. Now, Colombia’s plan to finally stop cocaine from ravaging the country is to put full efforts into creating a long-term Plan Substitution. Colombia and other South American countries dealing with coca problems, such as Peru and Bolivia, could be tied into a group initiative to examine, plan, and take action against the growing coca production. The new proposal would include moving farmers, reallocation of land, providing new crops, and funding program farmers. Along with this, heavily affected rural communities will be supplied with food, indiscriminately helping families whether or not they produce coca or sign up for the new Plan Substitution. Lastly, a public program of education about the impacts of cocaine and marijuana and alternative options can help the decriminalization of drug use in Colombia and other nations attempting to tackle drug abuse.

Next, with funds from The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), The World Health Organization (WHO), and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the new Plan Substitution, renamed to Plan Green, can be funded. As seen in the past, Plan Substitution created a significant short-term decrease in coca plants.
Along with this, the U.N., particularly The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), can set a global precedent for developing nations that deal with drug abuse, drug trafficking, or lack of treatment for drug addicts. This resolution should focus on the education of the public to fight the danger of drugs and educate them on how to deal with substance abuse. This could include the implementation of treatment centers for drug users, a public program informing on substance abuse, or an education program on how to safely take drugs. Overall, this resolution should not demonize drugs but rather focus on how to help the citizens of the world deal with addiction.

However, the government of Colombia did not fulfill our promise of funding the over 100,000 families who signed up for the program. Now, we understand the citizens of Colombia are committed, therefore, so are we. Colombia can see the future it deserves, a future where drug cartels are the past, a future where political instability is dealt with, and a future where wealth equality is achievable.

Works Cited
Acero, C., & Thomson, F. (2021). ‘Everything peasants do is illegal’: Colombian coca growers’ everyday experiences of law enforcement and its impacts on state legitimacy. Third World Quarterly, 43(11), 2674–2692.

Palomino K, Berdugo CR, Vélez JI. Leading consumption patterns of psychoactive substances in Colombia: A deep neural network-based clustering-oriented embedding approach. PLoS One. 2023 Aug 18;18(8):e0290098. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290098. PMID: 37594973; PMCID: PMC10438020.

Pozzenbon, Stefano. “Colombia’s Drug Problem Is Worse than Ever. But It Has a Radical Solution.” CNN World, 22 Nov. 2022,

www.cnn.com/2022/11/22/americas/colombia-coco-decriminalize-intl-latam/index.html. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

United States Government Accountability Office. “U.S. Counternarcotics Assistance Achieved Some Positive Results but State Needs to Review the Overall U.S. Approach.” CNN World, 12 Dec. 2018, www.gao.gov/assets/gao-19-106.pdf. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

“How Cocaine Smuggling Fuels An $18 Billion Dollar Industry In Colombia | Risky Business.” Youtube, uploaded by Business Insider, 29 Aug. 2024,

www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVNc1CUTX_s. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

Glatsky, Genevieve. “Colombia Faces a New Problem: Too Much Cocaine.” Newyork Times, 14 Jul. 2024, www.nytimes.com/2024/07/13/world/americas/colombia-cocaine.html. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

Villa, Navarro. “Average Price of Bananas in Latin America As of May 2020, by Country.” Statista, 25 Jul. 2023, Average price of bananas in Latin America as of May 2020, by country. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

Isacson, Adam. “Crisis and Opportunity: Unraveling Colombia’s Collapsing Coca Markets.” Wola, 24 Aug. 2023, www.wola.org/analysis/crisis-opportunity-unraveling-colombias-collapsing-coca-markets/. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

“Deeply Rooted: Coca Eradication and Violence in Colombia.” International Crisis Group, 26 Feb. 2021,
www.crisisgroup.org/latin-america-caribbean/andes/colombia/87-deeply-rooted-coca-eradication-and-violence-colombia. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

Biruega, Christina. “Can Colombia End the War on Drugs?” The Dial, 21 Mar. 2024, www.thedial.world/articles/news/issue-14/colombia-drug-trade-cocaine-legalization. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

“Taxing and Legalizing Cocaine Would Give the Country More than $22 Billion”: Luis Carlos Reyes.” CAMBIO, 30 Jan. 2023,
cambiocolombia.com/economia-colombiana/gravar-y-legalizar-la-cocaina-le-daria-mas-de-22-billones-al-pais-luis-carlos. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

Salomon, Josefina. “Argentina Drug Decriminalization Could Throw Official Stats Overboard” Insight Crime, 6 Aug. 2018,https://insightcrime.org/news/argentina-drug-decriminalization-throw-official-stats-overboard/. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024

Fraser Institute. “For a Reasonable Drug Policy” Fraser Institue, Apr. 2001, https://www.fraserinstitute.org/sites/default/files/SensibleSolutionsBuechiMinder.pdf. Accessed 21 Nov 2024

Knopf, Taylor. “Switzerland couldn’t stop drug users. So it started supporting them” North Carolina Health News, Jan. 21, 2019, https://www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2019/01/21/switzerland-couldnt-stop-drug-users-so-it-started-supporting-them/. Accessed 21 Nov 2024

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Albania
Delegate Name: Rayyan Abu Azine

Substance abuse refers to the harmful or excessive use of drugs or alcohol. Some of the most catastrophic substances include opioids, alcohol, cocaine, methamphetamine, and nicotine. The use of these substances result in a negative impact on the individual and society. Most of these substances were intended for medical use or social use, but the misuse of these products leads to harmful long-term effects, which can inflict damage physically to the individual or can be mentally taxing (like increased anxiety or more severe depression). The effects on society include strained social relations and increased risk of accidents, crimes, and overdoses. There have been international efforts to combat this problem. Some of the older examples of drug control and medical availability include the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs and the 1993 World Health Organization guidelines.

Albania in recent years has contributed efforts to combat substance abuse. Since 2000, Albania has had an incentive for community and rehabilitation initiatives. These establishments focus on the rehabilitation of drug addicts and alcoholics, as well as targeting the youth for prevention. Other efforts include cooperation internationally with the European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN) on drug crackdowns.

Albania raises concerns about the increasing prevalence and availability of these drugs and the societal impacts, primarily on the most vulnerable underdeveloped and underfunded countries. Albania primarily wants to focus on accountability for individuals and corporations on the distribution and trafficking of these substances. Albania would like to collaborate with the EU and the UN for assistance with resources and standardization.

In this committee, Albania advises the World Health Organization to implement further restrictions on their already established guidelines and enhance their policies. Albania is advocating for increased collaboration between countries and capacity building for effective use against substance abuse. Albania also promotes the advocacy for greater and more improved education and awareness through public education and outreach, specifically to be taught in schools to prevent further negative effects in the future. Albania looks forward to working with neighboring countries and foreign delegations to resolve substance abuse.

Works Cited:

Bertelsmann Stiftung, BTI 2024 Country Report — Albania. Gütersloh: Bertelsmann Stiftung, 2024. Accessed 20 November 2024

“Helping to prevent drug abuse in Albania.” Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe | OSCE, 16 August 2004, https://www.osce.org/albania/57538. Accessed 20 November 2024
“Substance Abuse.” Approaches to Treatment of Substance Abuse, 3 November 1993, https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/substance-use/who-psa-93-10.pdf. Accessed 20 November 2024.
United Nations. “United Nations Conference for the Adoption of a Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 24 January – 25 March 1961, New York.” United Nations, United Nations, 2015, https://www.un.org/en/conferences/drug/newyork1961#:~:text=The%20United%20Nations%20Conference%20for,consumption%20through%20coordinated%20international%20intervention. Accessed 20 November 2024.

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Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Switzerland
Delegate Name: Saraswati Guzzardo

In 2019 about 600,000 deaths were attributable to drug use. Close to 80% of these deaths were related to opioids, with about 25% of those deaths caused by opioid overdose (World Health Organization). A widespread overprescription of opioids for pain relief led to an ‘opioid crisis’ in the 1990s within the United States of America which still continues today. Though this issue originated in the United States, it has proliferated nearly every border on Earth. There are effective treatment interventions for opioid dependence that can decrease the risk of overdose and death, yet less than 10% of people who need such treatment are receiving it. This is our problem.
Switzerland has passed many pieces of legislation to prevent substance abuse on the national level. In October of 1951, The Federal Law on Narcotics was passed; this sets a legal basis for fighting the use of illicit drugs in Switzerland. The law regulates medical use of narcotics and prohibits the production, trafficking, possession, and consumption of such drugs for non-medical purposes. A special authorization from the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health is required for all substances and for all purposes of said substances (Büechi). Legislation like this have been effective in Switzerland as we are able to maintain human dignity, equality, and non-discrimination, while getting harmful substances off the street. If other countries were to follow Swiss policy, they would greatly improve their situations.
Another route of defense against drugs is naloxone. Naloxone is an antidote to opioids that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose if administered in time. Australia, Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Ukraine have introduced naloxone as over-the-counter medication and have also started proactive disbursement within their communities. However, access to naloxone is generally limited to health professionals in developed countries due to financial strain (World Health Organization).
Solutions to these monetary issues are more difficult for this delegation to respond to, though Switzerland is willing to aid these developing nations in their pursuit of safety. Within Switzerland, public health services (which would include drug prevention) are funded through taxation, social insurance contributions, and out-of-pocket payments. Adults also pay yearly deductibles, in addition to co-insurance for all services (Tikkanen). These methods have been effective for our country in funding our public health, however we understand that not all countries have the ability to do this. Switzerland would be interested in subsidizing costs with other developed nations to assist these emergent nations.
Switzerland thinks that a four-fold approach would be most productive in slashing drug use across the globe. These four-folds consist of prosecution (criminal prosecution of production, trafficking, and consumption of illegal drugs), prevention (school programs to convince young people of the permanent health effects and dangerous behaviors involved with drug use), harm reduction (spreading treatments like naloxone to developing and developed countries), and therapy (reintegration, recovery, and treatment programs for survivors of drug overdose). In order to monitor the initiative’s progress, Switzerland urges the establishment of an international sub-board of the WHO that would oversee the capabilities and capacity of the exterprise and make modifications to it as it sees fit. With plans like these in place, and countries focused on doing what is best for their people, Switzerland is positive that great progress will be made in this committee session of the World Health Organization.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Warda Elmi

Sudan is firmly against substance abuse. However, rather than advocating for a violent crackdown on it, we wish to work towards solutions that center education and support individuals struggling with addiction. Through strong education programs that inform the public, especially the youth, of the dangers of substance abuse and addiction, individuals can be persuaded to not engage in taking these drugs in the first place.
These programs can be integrated into school programs and broadcasted on everyday media and television. Additionally, these programs should be interactive and internet-based, so that individuals can access them from anywhere, as long as they have access to a phone (as most Sudanese individuals do). These measures will break down the stigma that surrounds drug abuse in Sudanese communities, and will facilitate honest and open discussions about how drug use often spirals into addiction. As another method of reducing the stigma surrounding drug abuse, Sudan is hoping to improve access to rehabilitation centers and treatments. Increasing telehealth and radio-based telehealth services means that location will no longer hinder an area’s access to doctor care.
Moreover, mobile clinics and community-based health clinics are an invaluable tool that we would like to add into our arsenal in order to increase the scope of our current rehabilitation programs. Subsidies by federal governments would also incentivize the production of cheap, easy-to-access rehab treatments.
Overall, it is critical that we do not shun those who use and/or abuse drugs from society, as that can lead to the stigmatization of drug abuse, and thus, a larger underground market for it. Substance abuse is a global issue, and no one should have to face it alone.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Belgium
Delegate Name: Kate Petersburg

Committee: WHO
Topic: The Spread of Animal Viruses
Country: Belgium
Delegate: Kate Petersburg
School: Williamston High School

Since animal viruses make up such a huge portion of human infections it is vital that it is an issue being focused on. Currently, 60% of all human infections stem from animals, and 75% of those “jump” to humans. It is highly estimated that a decent portion of these cases are due to increased exposure and poorly maintained conditions while others could be from consuming animal products that haven’t been prepared properly. Past efforts to manage zoonotic virus outbreaks have resulted in varying results such as the 2003 SARS outbreak being contained in as little as six months while the Ebola outbreak in West Africa ended in 11,000 deaths which took months to even identify the virus involved. Limiting the spread of these zoonotic viruses is crucial to prevent further outbreaks.
Belgium believes that the spread of animal viruses is a major issue that needs to be handled and talked about. Currently, Belgium has many plans and goals regarding this issue such as Monitoring and Surveillance. Belgium plans to keep a close eye on these diseases to be able to detect and control them better. The FASFC for example has many protocols in place to report and contain any possible outbreaks of animal diseases. In addition, Sciensano, or the Belgian Institute for Health, works with the FASFC to collect and analyze data on animal diseases that might have a possible impact on human health. Belgium also has protocols for early detection and rapid response. This involves collaboration between public health and veterinary services to handle these issues swiftly. These collaborations work closely to ensure potential outbreaks are identified and removed before further harm is caused. This includes contact tracing, Quarantine and isolation measures, and Vaccination programs to ensure everyone’s safety. Belgium also enforces biosecurity in places such as farms, wildlife reserves, zoos, and other animal-related facilities. This also involves the safe handling and consumption of meat. There are also public awareness campaigns to inform the population on the risks of animal viruses and how to properly reduce the potential of transmission including how to properly handle animals and maintain proper hygiene. An example of how Belgium has acted to protect the people in the past is the H5N1 Avian Influenza. Belgium put forth strict quarantine measures in affected farms and put restrictions on the birds affected. Belgium takes an active stance on this issue and believes it to be an important matter to be concerned about by all.
Belgium’s plan for the future is to continue the current policies to stop the spread of animal viruses and manage those affected. Although Belgium has many current policies in place, Belgium would be open to expanding and strengthening them. Belgium would also be open to working with other countries to achieve its goals and help stop the spread and dangers that come along with animal viruses. Belgium believes The Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France will be good allies to work with in the future.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Peru
Delegate Name: Margaret Leahy

Country: Peru
Committee: WHO
Topic: Substance Abuse
Delegate: Margaret Leahy
School: Williamston High School

There are about 300 million people who use drugs worldwide. 1 in every 17 people from ages 15 to 64 have used a drug in the past year. This issue is not new, but it is still prevalent as ever. People suffer from addiction every day and combat social stigma surrounding substance abuse. By helping people who struggle with drugs or alcohol the numbers regarding drugs will decrease. Sadly, 75 percent of all high school students have used addictive substances such as cigarettes, alcohol, marijuana or cocaine. Not only does drugs and alcohol make people violent or have health issues, but drugs can rip apart important relationships with loved ones. About 46 percent of people have a close friend or family member who is or has been addicted to drugs.
Peru is unfortunately the biggest cultivator of coca plants. This leads to lots of drug trafficking cartels in Lima and throughout South America. Lots of communities near the Amazon get big cash drops from cultivating coca plants. Unfortunately, the limited economic opportunities in Peru makes it difficult to move away from the business. Peru has had some efforts to combat drug trafficking but the issue still persists. Alcohol is also a concern in Peru because of the huge drinking culture. There can be a lot of health issues with excessive drinking like liver disease or cardiovascular conditions. Alcoholics can be very violent leading to domestic violence or fatality from alcohol intoxication. Peru’s government has a sparse amount of rehabilitation centers for alcoholics in rural areas.
Peru and other countries need to be proactive about preventing and monitoring substance abuse. Peru is interested in enhancing border control, combating drug production in rural areas, and targeting criminal organizations. It is important (especially for Peru) to encourage communities to move away from the production of coca and replace it with legal crops like coffee or fruit. Peru is also interested in programs for training farmers and making markets accessible. In addition, Peru would like to strengthen border control with Colombia, Brazil, and Chile to decrease drug trafficking and smuggling. Collaborating with international organizations can help communication flow easier to track drug trade routes. Lastly, deconstructing entire cartels is vital to decreasing substance abuse, rather than just capturing low-level criminals involved in the operation. This eliminates the problem at its source instead of chipping away at the problem gradually. This is essential to ending the use of substance abuse in Peru.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Ireland
Delegate Name: Jackson Harlan

Country: Ireland
Committee: WHO (ECOSOC)
Topic: Substance Abuse
Delegate: Jackson Harlan
School: Williamston High School
While some might not give it a second thought millions of people daily are affected by substance abuse. In the modern day, dangerous substances have been made more available. As trade prospers internationally, so does the trade of illegal or harmful substances, which only inflates the problem. The GFI estimated transnational drug trafficking has an estimated revenue of $426 to $652 billion USD despite this trade being illegal in the majority of countries. As of 2021, the UNODC estimated that 39.5 million people have suffered from drug use disorders, and out of those people only 1 in 5 received treatment. The most prevalent of these substances are cannabis, opioids, and amphetamines. The UN has attempted to tackle this issue countless times, one of the most recent being in 2016 where the focus was working towards using evidence-based strategies and creating more widespread access to treatment. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime has worked to create policy focusing on prevention, as well as treatment. The UN needs to continue to work on creating policies that can support the millions of people impacted.
Ireland has countless policies and plans addressing the issue of substance abuse, which primarily focus on the health aspect of the issue. This involves addressing treatment by providing things such as access to rehabilitation, and resources to inform of the dangers of substance abuse. Ireland believes that working towards reducing the stigma surrounding the issue and focusing more on a health and well-being standpoint is more beneficial than coercive sanction. Ireland has worked with European groups such as the Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use and Dublin Drug Treatment Courts to work towards their goals of the education and treatment of substance abuse. Specifically working with the Dublin Drug Treatment Courts has allowed Ireland to push for rehabilitation for people impacted by substance abuse. Ireland is also currently part of a European Union Drug Action plan from 2021-2025 which focuses on education and health.
Ireland urges other nations to focus on addressing how to help the people impacted rather than punishment. Ireland has goals to find ways to provide resources to educate about the problem as well as access to treatment for other nations. In particular, providing rehabilitation opportunities will be a key factor in addressing the issue of substance abuse. Ireland aims to introduce court systems similar to the Dublin Drug Treatment Courts to other nations as a way of helping those suffering from substance abuse. Although steps surrounding treatment are important it is also important to address the constant change and growth within the problem. This requires the cooperation and willingness of the UN to truly continue to address such a growing issue. The continuation of the UN Office on Drug and Crimes is critical to addressing substance abuse, as well as providing funds to these programs aiming to end substance abuse. It is important to recognize the many aspects of the problem, but most importantly to acknowledge the need to help those affected by substance abuse.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Rocco Blaisdell

Position Paper: Substance Abuse
Country: Italy
Committee: The Food and Agriculture Organization
Topic: Substance Abuse
Introduction:
Substance abuse remains a pressing global concern, impacting public health, social stability,
and economic productivity. In Italy, substance abuse has profound implications on the well-being
of citizens and the sustainability of local communities. Italy recognizes the multifaceted nature of
this issue, with its connections to mental health, social inequality, and organized crime. This
position paper outlines Italy’s concerns, policies, and proposed solutions to address substance
abuse effectively.
Italy’s Perspective:
Italy acknowledges the complex societal challenges posed by substance abuse and its
far-reaching consequences. The country is particularly concerned with the following issues:
1. Public health impact: Substance abuse contributes to a range of health problems, including
addiction, overdose, and chronic diseases, burdening the healthcare system.
2. Social and economic costs: The effects of substance abuse include lost productivity,
increased healthcare expenses, and strained social services.
3. Youth vulnerability: The rising prevalence of substance abuse among young people threatens
future generations and demands immediate attention.
4. Links to organized crime: The illegal drug trade fuels organized crime, undermining social
stability and public safety.
Italy’s Policy Positions:
Italy advocates for a comprehensive and balanced approach to address substance abuse,
emphasizing prevention, treatment, and enforcement. Key policy positions include:
1. Supporting education and prevention programs to raise awareness about the risks of
substance abuse, particularly among youth.
2. Expanding access to rehabilitation and treatment services for individuals struggling with
addiction.
3. Strengthening law enforcement efforts to combat drug trafficking and dismantle criminal
networks.
4. Promoting community-based initiatives to address the root causes of substance abuse, such
as poverty and social exclusion.
Proposed Solutions:
To effectively tackle substance abuse, Italy proposes the following solutions:
1. Implement nationwide awareness campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of
substance abuse and promote healthier lifestyles.

2. Increase funding for mental health services and addiction treatment centers to ensure
accessible and comprehensive care.
3. Foster international collaboration to share best practices and enhance cross-border efforts in
combating drug trafficking.
4. Encourage research into alternative therapies and evidence-based approaches to addiction
treatment and recovery.
5. Support community-driven programs that address social inequities and provide opportunities
for at-risk populations.
Conclusion:
Italy is committed to addressing the issue of substance abuse through coordinated efforts that
prioritize public health, social welfare, and security. By strengthening prevention, treatment, and
enforcement strategies, and collaborating with international partners, Italy seeks to mitigate the
impacts of substance abuse and create a safer, healthier society for future generations.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Lee Gerring

Delegate: Lee Gerring
Committee: WHO
Topic: Substance Abuse
Country: Germany
School: Williamston High School

It’s no secret that a large portion of the world is greatly affected by the use of drugs and other substances such as alcohol, whether they’re the ones doing it or not. As the world grew and large markets were created across the globe, the planet also saw an increase in illicit drug use. According to the World Drug Report, 292 million people used a drug in 2022, a 20% increase from the previous decade, and nearly 40 million people are affected by a drug use disorder, this statistic not even taking into account the amount of deaths caused by this drug use. A majority of countries have taken action against the use of illicit drugs as means to slow, and hopefully end, the deaths caused by its usage. There are some drugs that are actually used to combat the addiction of harmful drugs, however they generally tend to be in the more developed nations and are unable to be received unless by a medical professional.
Germany takes the battle against substance abuse very seriously. In a 2022 report, alcohol was found to be the most frequently used substance, with a 30-day prevalence of 70.5% or 36.1 million citizens, followed by non-opioid analgesic drugs with 47.4%; or 24.2 million citizens. This shows that the addiction to substances is still very prevalent in Germany and still has ways to come to combat this crisis. Adopted in 2012, Germany took up the National Strategy on Drug and Addiction Policy, this policy uses a four pillar response to complete it’s goal. These pillars consist of: prevention, counselling & treatment, harm reduction, supply reduction, and the use of law enforcement. Preventive measures are intended to provide information about the dangers of drug or addictive substances as to counteract harmful use or addiction before it can develop in the first place, this is a step usually used when educating children. Counselling and treatment offers are vital to help those addicted to drugs to break the cycle of their addiction and prevent relapses. Another measure taken to reduce harm is the use of drug consumption rooms, stabilizing the health and social situation of those living with addiction. This makes it an important precondition for overcoming addiction at a later stage.
Germany has no plan to drift away from the National Strategy on Drug and Addiction Policy and plans to continue the use of the policy’s four pillars as means to help. However, Germany does still see a significant portion of their population still being affected by substance abuse even with this policy. So with that, Germany is still very open to adopting and strengthening its current policy as means to improve the lives of citizens. Germany hopes to find allies in the countries in the European Union, especially the Netherlands and Switzerland who tend to have similar policies with Germany on this front of substance abuse.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Claire Yuan

Committee: World Health Organization
Topic: Substance Abuse
Country: Indonesia
School: Portage Central High School

Substance abuse is a growing global health crisis that affects millions of people and their communities. Addiction creates serious problems like mental health issues, economic challenges, and overburdened healthcare systems. These effects are often felt most by those in marginalized groups or areas with limited resources. The Republic of Indonesia is determined to fight substance abuse through public education and international cooperation to create impactful solutions.
Indonesia recognizes the wide-ranging effects of substance abuse on public health and social stability. According to the National Narcotics Board of Indonesia (BNN), the country recorded over 4.8 million individuals suffering from drug addiction in 2023, with many cases linked to methamphetamine use. To address this issue, Indonesia has implemented extensive rehabilitation programs, such as the Rehabilitation Village Program, which provides treatment and reintegration support for individuals struggling with addiction. These programs are especially critical in rural areas, where access to healthcare services remains limited.
Education plays a key role in Indonesia’s strategy to combat substance abuse. National awareness campaigns, such as the annual Anti-Narcotics Day, have reached millions through schools, workplaces, and social media platforms. These initiatives focus on educating young people about the dangers of drug use and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. A 2022 campaign led by BNN successfully reduced drug usage rates among students in Jakarta by 15%, demonstrating the impact of targeted education efforts.
International collaboration is essential to tackling the transnational drug trade, which fuels substance abuse across the globe. Indonesia has strengthened partnerships with organizations such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to disrupt drug trafficking networks. In 2021, Indonesian authorities worked with regional allies to intercept over 2.5 tons of methamphetamine bound for Southeast Asia, one of the largest seizures in the nation’s history. These efforts illustrate Indonesia’s commitment to international cooperation and its leadership in regional anti-drug initiatives.
The Republic of Indonesia also emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of substance abuse, including poverty and lack of economic opportunity. By investing in community development programs, Indonesia seeks to provide alternatives to drug-related activities. For example, job training initiatives in high-risk areas have successfully reduced drug dependency by offering individuals stable sources of income and purpose. These efforts align with Indonesia’s broader commitment to sustainable development and social welfare.
Indonesia calls on all member states to take a multifaceted approach to the global substance abuse crisis by prioritizing education, rehabilitation, and international cooperation. Stronger cross-border partnerships, increased investment in prevention programs, and the promotion of economic opportunities in vulnerable communities are essential for creating lasting solutions. With collective action, the world can reduce the devastating impact of substance abuse and create healthier, more resilient societies.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Algeria
Delegate Name: Raksha Karunanithy

World Health Organization
Substance Abuse
The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria
Raksha Karunanithy
Forest Hills Eastern

The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria addresses substance abuse as an increasingly important global health and social crisis. As a country that sits at the crossroads of Africa and Europe, Algeria faces complicated challenges in responding to drug trafficking and the domestic misuse of substances which includes cannabis, cocaine, and synthetic drugs. Algeria’s government has implemented a strategy which prioritizes prevention, treatment, and enforcement. Public awareness campaigns that have been established focus on targeting the youth and families to teach them about the risks of substance abuse and to promote healthier lifestyles. Healthcare services have expanded to include specialized addiction treatment centers and rehabilitation programs while ensuring and giving extra attention to rural and underserved populations, ensuring no one is left behind. Community-based rehabilitation programs further support recovery by offering vocational training, mental health support, and encourage reintegration.

Algeria addresses that substance abuse is not confined within a nation’s borders and requires a unified global response. The country has prioritized international cooperation through partnerships with organizations like the African Union and the Arab League, as well as actively engaging and collaborating with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). These efforts mainly focus on targeting transnational drug trafficking networks, strengthening border controls, and sharing intelligence and technology to combat the entering and exiting of illicit substances. Algeria advocates for increased collaboration among WHO members, particularly in nations where resources are limited and scarce. The nation puts emphasis on the urgency of increasing global investment in prevention and treatment programs, especially those targeting synthetic drug trends and other threats. International funding and technical support should prioritize capacity building efforts, to ensure that vulnerable countries have the tools to effectively address the substance abuse within their borders.

Algeria advocates for policies that align drug prevention with broader social equity goals, including education access, and mental health support. By tackling the socio-economic factors that influence addiction, the international community can promote sustainable heath systems and protect vulnerable populations. Algeria continues to remain stubborn when it comes to its commitment to combating substance abuse and looks forward to working with World Health Organization states to develop an innovative and effective response to this increasing global issue.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: France
Delegate Name: Ryland Ogrodowski

Topic: Substance Abuse
Committee: (WHO) World Health Organization
Country: France
Delegate: Ryland Ogrodowski
School: Riverview Jr/Sr High School

Currently one of the worst crises occurring in our world is the rise of substance abuse. It was accounted that in 2022, 292 million people globally were drug users, creating a rise of 20% in the past 10 years of users (UNODC). Out of the 64 million who suffer from drug disorders only 1 in every 11 people will get the treatment/rehabilitation they need for this issue (UNODC). As well with only 1 in every 18 women get their help when compared to the 1 in every 7 men (UNODC). This crisis has led to further issues within countries such as increases in crimes, overcrowding in prisons, and drug trafficking increases. Leading factors to this increase in drug abuse are how in 2022 a cocaine surge rose by 20% in tons as well with the start of legalizing cannabis in many regions (UNODC). These changes made this issue more significant and a spiraling problem that needs to be solved immediately.

The Delegation of France is a country that is currently battling the increases in substance abuse over the course of the past few years. Even though cannabis is prohibited in France, it remains the most widely used substance with it being reported that 17 million between the ages of 15- to 64-year-olds tried this drug as of 2022 (McVay). Covid-19 extremely affected this issue while 16% of users said they reduced their substance while at home, 27% said their use increased (Drugs). To further prove this issue a survey was run in 2014 by the INPES Health Barometer Survey showing that 21% of 18- to 64-year-olds were at a high risk of health problems due to cannabis use (McVay). Not only does this issue affect the overall health of the citizens of France but it was reported in 2016 that crimes related to drug use and drug trafficking were at their all-time high in the country (Drugs). Deaths as well have increased due to these drug issues. From 2003-2008 an increase in drug induced deaths and the leading death being overdoses in France (McVay). This clearly reveals that this problem is not only affecting the health of the citizens of France, but also the safety and security of the country. With cannabis being the most widely used drug, but it being illegal creates rising issues with how the substance is being brought into the country and abused. Along with this, the focus on how to gain help for the people suffering from these addictions is needed to take steps forward as a country.

To combat this ongoing issue of substance abuse, the Delegation of France proposes to enforce ways that illegal drugs are making their ways into countries, mainly through drug dealers/trafficking. Such as administration on stricter police enforcement. Which can be done by deploying more police at trading ports and border control areas. To ensure that drugs that are illegal would not be brought into the country. With this having a list of known drug dealers made and shared within the border police forces of the UN. This would be done to track down dealers entering and leaving countries. This security will help not only ensure further safety for citizens in the country, but a slow to drug dealing and illegal drugs within countries in all. Additionally, the Delegation of France emphasizes how individuals are already being affected that have drug disorders and proposes the creation of further rehabilitation therapy centers. Many individuals who deal with drug disorders aren’t receiving the help they need. Creating more rehabilitation centers will allow individuals to receive the help they need. These centers can be built and run under the WHO across the globe to ensure the safety of individuals receiving help possibly in unsafe countries. Allowing people everywhere to receive the treatment they deserve towards substance abuse. To follow all of this to make sure that countries are making progress with this issue the Delegation of France proposes that a group is made within the UN called the UNSAP (United Nations Substance Abuse Progress). This group will have a representative of every country come to meet once a year to share statistics about their countries and what they have found to work amongst them in combating this issue. Bringing ideas towards other countries on how they can fight this ongoing issue and communicate with others on substance abuse. Sharing about security tactics, rehabilitation, and safety for their countries all together.

Citations:

“Drugs in France – Statistics & Facts.” Statista, 29 Aug. 2024, www.statista.com/topics/7909/drugs-in-france/#topicOverview. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

McVay, Doug. “France.” Drug Policy Facts, 8 Sept. 2022, www.drugpolicyfacts.org/region/france. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

“UNODC World Drug Report 2024: Harms of World Drug Problem Continue to Mount amid Expansions in Drug Use and Markets.” United Nations, 26 Jun. 2024, www.unodc.org/unodc/en/press/releases/2024/June/unodc-world-drug-report-2024_-harms-of-world-drug-problem-continue-to-mount-amid-expansions-in-drug-use-and-markets.html. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Asher Stein

Topic: 2024 – Substance Abuse
Country: Egypt
Committee: ECOSOC/WHO
School: East Grand Rapids
Delegate Name: Asher Stein
Substance abuse, particularly the misuse of drugs, is a growing concern in the nation of Egypt. The role of drugs in Egypt’s population comes with significant complications for public health, stability within societies and communities, and economic development. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime suggests that approximately 10% of the country’s residents engage in illicit drug abuse, nearly double the global average of roughly 5% of people ages 15-64. Youth and young adults are especially at risk as socio-economic challenges, including unemployment and little-to-no access to appropriate mental health stratagem, drive many toward substance misuse.
The Arab Republic of Egypt is committed to addressing this crisis through comprehensive and coordinated efforts. Prevention is a cornerstone of Egypt’s strategy, focusing on nationwide awareness that educates young people and at-risk communities about the dangers of drug use. Collaboration with schools, community organizations, and religious leaders is vital to these initiatives. Egypt has also called for international support from the World Health Organization (WHO) to expand treatment options. This includes easing access to rehabilitation services, training healthcare professionals in evidence-based approaches, and implementing harm reduction strategies like needle exchanges to reduce the spread of drug-related infectious diseases.
Monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure the success of these initiatives. Egypt proposes creating a robust national database to track trends in drug use, treatment outcomes, and related health indicators. Clear and important data, such as reductions in drug-related hospitalizations and crime rates, will allow for the assessment of progress. Regular reporting to the WHO and other international organizations will provide truthfulness and responsibility, while feedback from local communities might these strategies are working. By addressing substance abuse through prevention, treatment, and thorough evaluation, Egypt aims to protect its citizens, promote public health, and harbor societal resilience.

Works Cited:
Pubmed.ncbi.nlm
Dataunodc.un.org
Harmreductionjournal.biomedcentral.com

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Senegal
Delegate Name: Molly Delp

Country: Senegal
Committee: ECOSOC: WHO
Topic: Substance Abuse
Delegate: Molly Delp
School: Williamston High School

Substance abuse is a very serious issue that leads to over 600,000 deaths annually. In addition, nearly 40 million people are affected by a drug use disorder, and an estimated ⅔ of these people are males. Besides drugs, substance abuse still remains a very serious issue due to alcohol, injectables, prescription medications, opiates, inhalants, and many more things. Substance Use Disorder is the spread of bloodborne pathogens such as HIV and Hepatitis C, and affects people who repeat substance use. There are drugs to prevent overdose deaths, but they are very limited in developed nations, and almost nonexistent in developing nations. The UN has previously called on governments to strengthen treatment options for substance abuse, as immediate action is required to prevent the issue from further spiraling.
Senegal takes the issue of substance abuse very seriously mainly due to illegal drug traffickers moving illegal drugs through Senegal. Senegal and its neighbors in West Africa have become a transit route for cocaine and other drugs coming from Latin America into Europe. In 2008, Senegal legislation adopted a new law that declared the punishment for drug trafficking will be increased from 10 to 20 years of hard labor. Senegal did a national school survey, and found that 27% of 15-16 year olds use at least one type of substance. The Senegalese Navy seizes very large amounts of drugs in Senegal on a regular basis. In 2022, 3,232 pounds of cocaine was seized in Senegal, and that amount is only increasing. The government of Senegal has recognized the seriousness of substance abuse and drug trafficking, and they are looking to implement a new National Strategic Plan on Drug Control that covers the period of 2021-2025. So far, Senegal has held two workshops for this plan. This new plan has been developed to guard the vision of a drug-free society for sustainable development in Senegal. The Strategic Plan addresses four main points which are a) strengthen the legal and institutional framework to address drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, b) strengthen the capacity of actors, c)reduce drug supply and demand, and d) improve communication on the national drug control system.
Senegal would propose to resolve this issue by further amending and implementing the new National Strategic Plan on Drug Control. Senegal wishes to decrease substance abuse, and the large amount of drug trafficking through the country. Senegal expects to find allies in other countries with high drug trafficking rates such as those in West Africa. Senegal also expects to find allies in the United States and other countries in the African Union.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Ethiopia
Delegate Name: Samaira Agarwal

Committee: World Health Organization
Topic: Substance Abuse
Country Ethiopia
School: Portage Central High School
Substance Abuse is the use of illegal drugs or the use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs or alcohol for purposes other than those for which they are meant to be used, or in excessive amounts. Substance abuse in Ethiopia has emerged as a critical public health issue, affecting individuals, families, and communities across the nation. The use of substances such as alcohol, khat, tobacco, and other illicit drugs has seen a troubling rise, particularly among young people, creating challenges that strain health services, weaken economic productivity, and increase social instability. Various factors contribute to this issue, including economic hardships, high unemployment rates, and limited access to mental health resources. Tackling this issue is vital to improving Ethiopia’s health, social well-being, and economic resilience.
On the global stage, the international community has made considerable efforts to combat substance abuse through frameworks and initiatives. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has provided technical assistance and implemented prevention strategies under the framework of the International Drug Control Conventions. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3, emphasize the need to strengthen prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotics and alcohol. Programs such as the WHO’s Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) aim to integrate substance abuse treatment into primary healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries like Ethiopia. Despite these efforts, Ethiopia continues to face challenges in implementing these frameworks due to limited resources, insufficient technical expertise, and a lack of robust public awareness campaigns.
Ethiopia has undertaken several national initiatives to address substance abuse. The country has integrated substance abuse management into its National Mental Health Strategy, prioritizing early intervention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Legislation such as the Drug Control Proclamation No. 1112/2019 aims to regulate the production, distribution, and use of narcotics and psychotropic substances. In addition, Ethiopia has implemented public education campaigns targeting the harmful effects of khat and alcohol, which are widely consumed across the country. The government also collaborates with community-based organizations to provide support for addiction recovery. However, gaps persist in funding, infrastructure, and the implementation of evidence-based prevention and treatment programs.
To effectively address substance abuse, Ethiopia proposes a multifaceted approach that combines national commitment with international collaboration. First, strengthening community-based awareness programs is crucial to educate the population, particularly youth, about the risks of substance abuse. These campaigns can be developed in partnership with schools, religious institutions, and civil society organizations. Second, Ethiopia calls for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure to expand access to treatment and rehabilitation services, with a focus on integrating these services into primary healthcare systems. This approach aligns with the WHO’s mhGAP framework. Third, Ethiopia advocates for the establishment of regional drug monitoring and prevention systems to address the growing problem of illicit drug trafficking in East Africa. partnerships with UNODC and Interpol will be essential to strengthen border security and disrupt drug trafficking networks.
Additionally, Ethiopia emphasizes the importance of alternative livelihoods for khat farmers to reduce dependence on this crop, which contributes to local substance abuse. International funding and technical assistance can support programs that encourage diversification into more sustainable agricultural practices. Finally, Ethiopia calls for the inclusion of mental health and substance abuse as a priority area in development assistance programs, ensuring that low-income countries receive the necessary resources to address these interconnected challenges.
Ethiopia reaffirms its commitment to combating substance abuse through national and regional strategies and calls on the international community to support these efforts. By fostering collaboration, building capacity, and the root causes of substance abuse, Ethiopia aims to safeguard its population and promote healthier, more resilient communities.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Mexico
Delegate Name: Dattasai Bobba

Committee: ECOSOC
Topic: Substance Abuse
Country: Mexico
School: Portage Central High School

Substance abuse is an extremely impactful topic in Mexico, now more than ever. Mexico itself produces opium and marijuana and it also serves as a route for cocaine transportation into the US, which has naturally led to the use and abuse of these substances among Mexicans themselves. In 1998, it was found that half of Mexico’s population used alcohol, about a quarter smoked actively and 43% used one or more drugs besides alcohol and tobacco. The issue of illicit substance abuse is closely linked to the issue of Mexican cartels, who are the primary distributors of these substances. Because these cartels smuggle illegal drugs into the United States, the US government has also played a role in Mexican substance abuse as it tries to stop the transport of illegal drugs across the US-Mexico border.

Mexico has taken part in several UN treaties such as the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs and Convention on Psychotropic Substances which aim to regulate the production, transportation, and use of substances. Mexico has also received assistance from the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime to fight the trafficking of drugs. Additionally, the UN has passed several resolutions to help Mexico (and other countries in similar situations) move away from economies so related to drugs and into more stable states.

Mexico considers the possession of many drugs to be a crime, but it allows some drugs like opium, heroin, cocaine, LSD, and cannabis to be possessed in very small quantities. This is in part because in Mexico, the outright prohibition of some drugs can be considered a violation of the constitutional right to health, one of the key principles of Mexican drug policy. Other principles include: the right to freely develop one’s personality, policies tailored to local communities, effective access to information, medication, and treatment, and respect for human rights. In general, Mexico is guided by principles tailored to prevent encroachments on the individual’s rights and freedoms.

In order to respect individual rights and freedoms, the best way to deal with less addictive substances in Mexico would not be forceful like outright banning them, but rather the establishment of programs to help individuals stop using these substances and put other laws in place to encourage them to stop. To deal with illegal drugs, the greater problem is not the drugs themselves but the cartels producing and transporting them. To stop these cartels, military force would likely be required and it would be most helpful for Mexico to cooperate with the US to stop trafficking.

Work Cited
Drug Policy in Mexico: The Cause of a National Tragedyâ, ycsg.yale.edu/sites/default/files/files/drug_policy_in_mexico_%20cause_of_a_national_tragedy.pdf. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.
Medina-Mora ME;Tapia CR;Rascón ML;Solache G;Otero BR;Lazcano F;Mariño MC; “[Epidemiological Status of Drug Abuse in Mexico].” Boletin de La Oficina Sanitaria Panamericana. Pan American Sanitary Bureau, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2532902/. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.
Mexico: Organized Crime and Drug Trafficking Organizations, sgp.fas.org/crs/row/R41576.pdf. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.
Partlow, Joshua. “Mexico’s Drug Trade Hits Home.” The Washington Post, 2017, www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2017/world/mexico-s-drug-traffic-is-now-hitting-home/#:~:text=While%20rates%20of%20drug%20use,to%20the%20latest%20national%20survey. Accessed 2024.

Topic: 2024-Substance Abuse
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Alexander Haas

Committee: ECOSOC
Topic: 2024 – Substance Abuse
Country: Pakistan
School: Portage Central
Delegate Name: Alexander Haas

The nation of Pakistan understands the importance and damaging effects of substance abuse. Substance abuse, defined as the misuse and overuse of legal and illegal drugs, presents many dangers and negative consequences in a society. In a 2013 study conducted by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics it was found that an estimated 6.5 million Pakistani citizens use drugs on an annual basis and 25% of the youth population is involved with drug use. This high presence of substance abuse has caused many problems in households along with affecting the economy by decreasing the amount of able bodied young workers.
To combat this issue of substance abuse the nation of Pakistan has put in place many laws and regulations to decrease availability and presence of substances in our nation. As a basis The Drugs Act of 1976 criminalizing the sale and manufacture of illicit substances. The National Anti-Narcotics Policy of 2019 also tackles the issue of drug abuse. This policy strengthens importation of substances on the national level from other countries. One of the main countries of concern being Afghanistan. The policy also increases the number and quality of care of rehabilitation centers along with promoting evidence based prevention measures within communities.
Currently Pakistan’s main objectives at combating the country’s substance abuse are as follows. Pakistan will continue to maintain the poppy-free status enforcing the zero tolerance policy of cultivation of narcotic plants. Pakistan will continue its zero tolerance policy on corrupt practices and effectively combat the manufacture of illicit goods within organized crime and drug related money laundering operations. Strengthen border security and law enforcement in the country of Pakistan. Increase availability of gender-sensitive drug treatment and rehabilitation care. And improving research and education on substance abuse.

Sources Cited

An exploratory research on the role of family in youth’s drug addiction. (n.d.). National Library of Medicine . https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4346037/#:~:text=Drug%20abuse%20is%20a%20prevalent,%5BUNODC%5D%20(2013)).
MESSAGE FROM THE FEDERAL MINISTER FOR INTERIOR AND NARCOTICS CONTROL MOHSIN NAQVI ON THE OCCASION OF INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST DRUG ABUSE AND ILLICIT TRAFFICKING. (n.d.). Press Information Department. https://pid.gov.pk/site/press_detail/25692
THE NATIONAL ANTI-NARCOTICS POLICY-2019. (n.d.).
https://narcon.gov.pk/SiteImage/Misc/files/The-National-Anti-Narcotics-Policy-2019.pdf

Position papers for GLIMUN 2024 will appear above this line, with the newest being at the top.