Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND)
Ágora's engagement with the UN's central drug policy-making body — advocating for evidence-based reform and meaningful civil society participation.
The Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) is the central policy-making body within the UN system for drug-related matters. Meeting annually in Vienna, it brings together Member States to set global drug policy direction. Ágora participates as civil society, advocating for reform and amplifying youth voices.
About the CND
Established in 1946, the CND is a functional commission of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). It oversees the implementation of international drug control conventions and provides policy guidance to UNODC. With 53 member states, it is the primary forum where global drug policy is debated and shaped.
Annual Sessions
The CND meets every March in Vienna for its regular session, with intersessional meetings and special segments throughout the year on emerging issues.
Resolution Adoption
Member States negotiate and adopt resolutions that guide global drug policy, from scheduling decisions to thematic priorities and implementation guidance.
Civil Society Space
NGOs with ECOSOC consultative status can attend, deliver statements, organize side events, and engage with delegations — though space remains limited.
Our CND Engagement
- Side Events: Organizing panels on youth perspectives, Latin American drug policy, and human rights-centered approaches
- Statements: Delivering oral and written statements during plenary and thematic discussions
- Delegation Meetings: Engaging with government delegations to advocate for specific policy positions
- Coalition Work: Collaborating with the Vienna NGO Committee on Drugs and other civil society networks
- Youth Delegation: Bringing young advocates to experience multilateral drug policy processes firsthand
Key Advocacy Priorities
Decriminalization
Advocating for resolutions and language supporting decriminalization of drug use and possession for personal consumption.
Harm Reduction
Pushing for explicit recognition and funding of harm reduction services within CND resolutions and UNODC programming.
Human Rights Integration
Ensuring that human rights obligations are reflected in all drug policy decisions, including opposition to the death penalty for drug offenses.
Youth Participation
Expanding formal mechanisms for youth engagement in CND processes, beyond tokenistic consultation.