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International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025, on June 26, urges collective efforts. Join the global cause on International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to promote awareness and prevention.
PWOnlyIAS
June 14, 2025
International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observed annually on 26 June, stands as a worldwide expression of the collective resolve to combat the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking. First established by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 42/112 on 7 December 1987, this global observance aims to raise awareness, promote preventive education, support treatment and rehabilitation, and strengthen cooperation among nations to build a drug-free society.
International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025, observed on 26 June, stands as a global call to action against the rising menace of drug abuse and illegal trafficking. Backed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 42/112, this day emphasises the urgent need for international cooperation, awareness, and evidence-based strategies to combat the drug crisis. In 2025, the day continues to focus on prevention, treatment, and justice systems, urging nations to invest in community resilience and youth empowerment to create a drug-free society.
| International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking Overview | |
| Particulars | Details |
| Event Name | International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025 |
| Date of Observation | 26 June 2025 |
| Established By | United Nations General Assembly (Resolution 42/112) |
| First Observed | 1988 |
| Purpose | Raise awareness and promote global action against drug abuse and trafficking |
| 2025 Theme | To be announced by UNODC |
| 2025 Logo | To be released by UNODC |
| Supporting Organization | United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) |
| Key Document | World Drug Report 2025 |
| Major Focus Areas | Prevention, Treatment, Education, Justice, Rehabilitation |
| Significance | Promote international cooperation to combat the drug crisis |
List Of International National Days 2025 Month-Wise List
The inception of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking dates back to 1987 when the UN resolved to raise awareness and coordinate international action against drug threats. It reflects the global community’s resolve to counteract drug-related challenges with scientific, evidence-based policies that focus on prevention, treatment, and social rehabilitation.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025 will be observed on 26 June 2025, but as of now, the official theme has not been released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Each year, the theme of this day reflects global priorities in combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking, with a strong emphasis on prevention, treatment, and international cooperation.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025 logo and theme are expected to align with this mission, offering visual and conceptual guidance for awareness campaigns worldwide.
Every year, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) publishes the World Drug Report, providing detailed analysis and statistics on global drug markets, consumption patterns, and policy developments. The latest edition presents compelling insights:
This report forms a cornerstone in shaping international responses under the framework of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
According to the World Drug Report 2024 by UNODC, over 292 million people worldwide used illicit drugs in 2022, marking a 20% rise in the past decade. Cannabis tops the list with 228 million users, followed by opioids (60 million), amphetamines (30 million), and cocaine (23 million).
A rising threat is the spread of nitazenes, synthetic opioids more potent than fentanyl, driving overdose deaths, especially in high-income countries. In Southeast Asia’s Golden Triangle, drug trafficking is interlinked with human trafficking and environmental crimes, worsening community vulnerability.
Cocaine production hit a record 2,757 tons, while legalised cannabis markets are witnessing a surge in high-THC use, leading to mental health concerns. These trends highlight the need for global prevention strategies and sustainable drug policies.
Observed on the same day, 26 June, National Anti-Drug Day in India aligns with global efforts to curb substance abuse. India, situated between two major opium-producing regions—the Golden Crescent and the Golden Triangle—faces significant challenges in combating drug trafficking and consumption.
The Anti-Drug Day in India marks intensified public awareness drives, educational campaigns, and government action to curb this growing threat led by both central and state authorities. Since 2014, the Ministry of Home Affairs has stepped up efforts in narcotics control:
India is both a transit and destination country for narcotics due to its proximity to the Golden Triangle (Myanmar, Thailand, Laos) and the Golden Crescent (Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran). National surveys indicate millions are afflicted by substance use disorders, involving:
The impact is devastating — not only on individuals but also on their families, communities, and institutions.
The rising trend in drug abuse cases across India has become a major concern, with a sharp increase in cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. This surge reflects the growing scale and spread of narcotics-related offences in both urban and rural regions.
According to official records, India recorded 1,15,236 drug abuse cases in 2022, more than double the 63,137 cases in 2018, marking a disturbing rise in substance-related crimes.
These states have seen a combination of both high usage and strong enforcement, with several intensifying their crackdown on drug-related crimes.
Under the Ministry of Home Affairs, India has adopted a multi-pronged approach since 2014:
These strategies demonstrate India’s relentless commitment to the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Launched in August 2020, Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan operates across all districts in India to spread awareness and offer support services. Achievements so far:
This flagship initiative supports the spirit of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking Celebration nationwide.
Source: india.gov.in
Drug abuse often begins in early adolescence, driven by peer pressure, curiosity, or mental health struggles. Education is the strongest shield in prevention. Effective strategies include:
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025 is not just a symbolic observance. It is a global movement—one that recognizes the human toll of addiction, and more importantly, our collective ability to transform lives through prevention, support, and action.
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