26 June - International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

The United Nations’ International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed annually on June 26, since 1988. The day is also known as World Drug Abuse Day in simpler form.

Why June 26?

June 26 was chosen to be observed as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to commemorate Lin Zexu’s dismantling of the opium trade in Humen, Guangdong, which occurred just prior to the First Opium War in China. The observance of this day was introduced by General Assembly Resolution 42/112 of December 7, 1987.

Purpose of the International Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking Day

This day aims at raising awareness about the dangers of illicit drugs and how major this issue is for today’s society. This day is supported and observed globally by different communities, organizations as well as individuals from different parts of the world.

The role of UNODC

UNODC or the UN Office on Drugs and Crime has been actively launching campaigns every year to gain support for drug control. The UNODC contacts and teams up with a number of different organizations and communities to encourage individuals to participate in their campaigns and promote awareness about the dangers associated with illicit drugs.

Some Important Stats

According to stats recorded by the UN Office of Drugs and Crime UNODC, about 200 million people in the world are using illicit drugs such as heroin, cocaine, cannabis, hallucinogens, opiates and sedative hypnotics. The UN is determined to help in building a society, which is free of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

Theme for June 26, 2016 – Listen First

On every International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the UNODC launches campaigns to raise awareness of drugs and crime problems on a different theme. For the year 2016, the campaign theme is ‘Listen First’.

'Listen First' is an initiative to increase support for prevention of drug use. It says that ‘Listening to children and youth is the first step to help them grow healthy and safe.’ The thought behind this campaign is to ask parents of small kids as well of youth to invest some time in listening to their children so as to know what is going on in their lives and to help them grow the right way. This is an effective investment in ensuring the well-being of children, youth, families, communities and the entire society.

What Should You Do?

As responsible citizens of the nation, in fact, as a responsible human, it is our duty to support the cause and not fall into the trap of drugs. Consuming drugs like ‘heroin’ can’t make you look cool or hero-like. What takes to be a real ‘hero’ is to stay away from all such addictive stuff, be responsible, lead a fuller life being in your senses and encouraging to build a drug free society worldwide.