28 May 1985

22nd plenary meeting

Promotion of preventive education and community participation against drug abuse

The Economic and Social Council,

Recalling article 38, paragraph 3, of the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961, the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961, as amended by the 1972 Protocol, and article 20, paragraph 3, of the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances,

Recalling also its resolution 1981/9 of 6 May 1981,

Noting with concern the alarming spread of drug abuse in most parts of the world and its detrimental effects on all societies and individuals, particularly young people,

Recognizing that the elimination of the illicit supply of and demand for drugs is the ultimate objective of the community of nations,

Mindful that, given the present state of knowledge in the treatment of drug addiction, a permanent cure is not always an attainable objective,

Aware of the urgent need to protect future generations from the scourge of drug abuse,

Conscious of the impact that informed public opinion will have in increasing the effectiveness of the fight against drug abuse,

Recognizing that information aimed solely at emphasizing the dangers of drug abuse is often of limited effectiveness in discouraging drug misuse,

1. Urges the Governments of countries facing problems of drug abuse, as part of a comprehensive strategy, to give priority to programmes which aim to create in the young a deep respect for their own health, fitness and well-being and, taking into account cultural and social factors, to provide appropriate information and judicious advice for all sectors of their communities with regard to drug abuse, its effects and the ways in which members of those communities can respond;

2. Invites Governments to enlist, as an ongoing strategy, the participation of intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, youth groups, teachers and parents in carrying out preventive activities;

3. Asks Governments to share their experience in this field, through bilateral arrangements, the Division of Narcotic Drugs of the United Nations Secretariat, the World Health Organization, other specialized agencies, and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations;

4. Requests the Secretary-General to transmit the present resolution to the Governments of Member States, the specialized agencies, and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations for their consideration and appropriate action.