World Drug Day - 26 June

Tags: Important Days

The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day, is observed annually on 26 June.

An Overview of the News

• World Drug Day aims to promote global efforts to eliminate drug abuse and illegal drug trafficking.

• This year's campaign focuses on treating individuals involved in drug use with empathy and respect.

• The campaign aims to combat the stigma and discrimination faced by drug users through respectful and non-judgmental language and approach.

• The theme for World Drug Day 2023 is "People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention."

• The theme emphasizes a people-centred approach to drug policies with a focus on human rights, compassion and evidence-based practices.

Background of World Drug Day

• The International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held in Vienna in 1987 recommended a day to be celebrated annually to commemorate the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

• On December 7, 1987, the United Nations General Assembly decided to observe June 26 as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

• The objective of this festival is to support the efforts to make the society drug free and to raise awareness about the prevention of drug abuse.

• June 26 was chosen as World Drug Day to commemorate the abolition of the opium trade in Humen, Guangdong by Lin Zexu on June 25, 1839.

June 2023 Days and Themes