What was once previously associated as a form of backstreet trade done in a dark alley can now be done

at the touch of a button. Drug abuse has become a widespread phenomena and its ease of accessibility has
posed a serious threat to students across the globe. According to the National Centre for Drug Abuse
Statistics, it has been reported that drug use amongst eighth graders has increased by 61% from
2016-2020 and 12.78% of teenagers aged 12-17 years old reported using marijuana in the past year. The
reason for these alarming statistics is due to the rise in the accessibility of synthetic drugs through online
drug markets, some of which have become increasingly accessible to communicate with. Consequently,
international cooperation is key to solving this transnational issue, since drug abuse now has no borders .
Therefore, in terms of solutions, there is an inclination towards rehabilitation and harm reduction
strategies, both of which have been adopted by drug policy progressive countries. Committee Objectives:
• Develop evidence-based strategies to prevent drug abuse in educational settings. • Examine the role of
rehabilitation and harm reduction in complementing enforcement and prevention efforts. • Foster
partnerships between education systems, governments, and NGOs Committee Questions: 1. How can
rehabilitation centers and harm reduction programs support students affected by drug abuse? 2. What role
do global drug policies play in shaping access to prevention and rehabilitation resources? 3. How can
education systems address the risks posed by online drug markets and synthetic substances? The Current
State of Drug Abuse in Education Systems: Nearly 100 years ago, the international community met in
Shanghai to discuss the single largest drug problem the world has ever known: the Chinese opium
epidemic. Prior to the 1909 Shanghai Opium Commission, national governments and state-sponsored
monopolies played an active role in peddling opium across borders. The profits were enormous,
generating as much as half of the national revenues of some island states serving as redistribution centers.
2 Even a country the size of British India derived 14% of state income from its opium monopoly in 1880.
This was marked as the first time the international community came together to find a solution to the drug
problem. Following this, many more conventions were held, and post world war II drug control came
under the control of the newly formed United Nations. In 1971, president Nixon declared drug abuse
“public enemy number one”, and officially launched the war on drugs. In 1998, the General Assembly of
the United Nations, at its twentieth special session, devoted to countering the world drug problem
together, adopted a Political Declaration (resolution S-20/2, annex) calling for the elimination or
significant reduction of the supply of and demand for illicit drugs by the year 2008. This was the first time
that the international community had agreed on a united drug control objective. It is under this objective
that the General Assembly requested the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to provide Member
States with the assistance needed to compile comparable data. In response to those requests, the United
Nations Office on Drugs and Crime launched the Global Assessment Programme on Drug Abuse (GAP).
Key objectives of GAP were: • To support Member States in building systems needed to collect reliable
data to inform policy and action; • To encourage regional partnerships for the sharing of experiences and
technical developments; • To facilitate a better understanding of global patterns and trends in drug abuse
by encouraging the adoption of sound methods of collecting comparable data. The main objective of GAP
was to assist Member States in building internationally comparable data around drug usage and to assess
the severity and patterns of drug abuse at country, regional and global levels. Estimates of drug abuse
among the youth population formed an integral part of all drug information systems. The prevalence rates
of drug use are matters of concern to policymakers in most countries, since they are important factors
affecting the health and welfare of the population. Despite these efforts, the complex and evolving nature
of the global drug problem persisted. Even after 50 years of the war on drugs, the supply and use of drugs
has not only seen an increase, but it's also created a massive black market that has had adverse effects on a
global level. Attempts by States 3 to control or eliminate the drug trade have fuelled increased violence,
toxic drug supplies, and crises in criminal justice systems. Drug prohibition has also driven the use of the
most violent forms of punishment - torture, death penalty, arbitrary detention or corporal punishment -
despite the use of these punishments being in violation of international human rights laws. In addition to
this, the implementation of these draconian measures results in communities being over-surveilled or
overpoliced. Drug laws, particularly those targeting possession for personal use are tools often used by
law enforcement to exert social control over an ethnic or racial minority, as mentioned by the UNHRC. In
2022, seven million people were either suspected, arrested, or cautioned by police for a drug-related
offense, out of these about 2.7 million people were prosecuted for drug offences and about 1.6 million
were convicted. Notably, the usage of drugs among younger people has shown to be more common than
that among older people for most drugs. Adolescents are more susceptible to drug addiction, with the
maximum usage of drugs occuring around ages 18-25 years old. Substance use, especially harmful use,
affects a young person’s well-being, health, life, and cognitive functioning, and is linked to academic
underachievement. In more extreme cases, it leads to a dependency resulting in overdose or suicide.
Factors that affect an individual's likelihood to develop addiction is ease of access to substances, living in
a substances and resulting in overdose or suicide. The environment in which an individual grows plays a
significant role in determining the influence of drugs in a child's life. For example, conflict zones,
displacement, and permissive social norms give individuals coping mechanisms for traumatic
experiences, mental health disorders, and social and economic inequality. The risk of drug abuse is a
product of the interaction between an individual’s personal characteristics and their experiences in the
various life spheres. For example, weak connection with parents at infancy may contribute to early
behaviour problems, which in turn affect engagement with peers, negatively impacting their social life
and causing them to resort to drugs as an outlet for their frustrations. The causes and effects of drug abuse
can be generalized to a larger population, not necessarily being limited to the younger population. On a
broader scale, drug use has increased drastically over the past decade, with around 64 million people
being diagnosed with drug use disorder, while only 1 in 11 being treated for it. This 4 is due to the harsh
criminalization policies in place, whereby drug possession is a criminal offence that results in unfair
punishments to an already suffering marginalized group such as ethnic minorities, sexual minorities, or
the lower class. A key role playing in the continuous rise of drug use, is the rise of synthetic drugs.
Synthetic drugs are chemically manufactured substances designed to mimic the effects of natural drugs,
such as cannabis or opium. The illegal manufacture, trafficking and non-medical use of synthetic drugs
present ongoing global challenges. The adoption of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971,
in which Member States agreed to extend controls over some new synthetic drugs, many of which were
pharmaceutical in origin, is testimony to the harm caused by the non-medical use of synthetic drugs in the
twentieth century. One very popular drug in this category is Amphetamine type stimulant(ATS). Global
seizures of ATS remain at historically high levels, with an estimate of around 30 million people using
amphetamines in 2022. In particular, this drug is more common amongst adolescents. Several studies
examining risk factors and predictors of methamphetamine use among younger individuals, find that
aggression, delinquency and hyper-activity were among the strongest predictors. Interviewees across all
countries tend to view young people as being more inclined than older people to use synthetic drugs. One
such reason is due to the stigma around drugs; synthetic drugs can be perceived as legitimate medication,
and offer an inconspicuous, odor free way to achieve desired euphoric effects. Furthermore, synthetic
drugs are also more difficult to detect using conventional drug tests. Significantly, ATS use is becoming
more common amongst students. In some countries, Secondary school students show concerning levels of
usage. Although international conventions call on governments to adopt appropriate measures to prevent
the diversion of materials and equipment for illegal drug manufacture, few countries enforce effective
regulations on the sale, transfer or possessions of tableting machines or other such apparatus. Criminals
exploit such equipment, sometimes finding vendors on the internet, to manufacture tablets containing
synthetic drugs illegally. The internet has played a huge role in the modern day, drug trafficking around
the world. Telemedicine and Internet pharmacies illustrate the dualities of challenges and opportunities.
They both hold great potential for improving access to 5 health care but at the same time enable
illegitimate actors to hide among legitimate providers. Online communication between sellers and
potential buyers is decreet and even encrypted and blends in with the massive stream of legitimate
messages and e-commerce activities. The scale of communications on these platforms makes it
exceedingly difficult for regulatory authorities to monitor, even if the communications leave digital traces.
It is complicated to take legal action and hold the culprits accountable, when trafficking offences are
conducted online. The disparities in Drug Access across different regions of the world are a reflection of
deep-seated inequities in global health. While high income countries enjoy access to a wide array of
innovative and cutting-edge therapeutics, low and middle income countries grapple with the scarcity of
even basic essential medicines. Access to essential diagnostics and therapeutics remain limited for lower
to middle income countries. According to the UNODC world report 2024, regions with harsher drug
policies experience higher rates of untreated addiction and related health issues. It should also be noted
that the economic burden of enforcing strict drug policies is substantial, where the resources spent on law
enforcement and judicial processes could be more effectively used in prevention, treatment, and harm
reduction programs. This is of major importance to consider for the student body especially in areas
affected by war or displacement. Since these children are more likely to be affected by drug abuse, it is of
importance that these students get help in forms of treatment, and harm reduction programs. Argentina, a
success case against trafficking: Three Latin American countries centralise cocaine production in the
world, with the leading consumer markets being in the United States and Europe. Argentina was for many
years identified as an essential cocaine transhipment country especially bound to Europe. A 2013 report
from the UNODC listed Argentina third among the countries most frequently mentioned as point of origin
for cocaine seizures made in Europe from 2001 up until 2013. This may be explained by the economic
factors in play, since the country was undergoing an economic crisis that created conditions that favored
the expansion of drug trafficking. The progress report released in 2021 titled “Employment crisis, income
poverty and structural social deprivation. Urban Argentina 2010-2021” highlights that 43.8% of
Argentines were below the poverty line. Furthermore, 6 broken down by age, the report shows that among
children and adolescents the percentage of poverty is even higher, reaching about 65%. These depressing
conditions resulted in a growing marginality that resulted in fertile grounds for drug trafficking, plus
various other illegal activities. A 67% increase was reported in cocaine use between 2008 and 2017.
Annual consumption of marijuana also increased in the same period, growing from 3.7% to 8.13%. It
should also be noted that around 2017, the Ministry of Education also acknowledged that one million
students, especially from the poorest sectors, dropped out of school. To address this situation, the Ministry
of Security worked with international agencies, such as Interpol and UNODC to share intelligence and
coordinate efforts in combating transnational drug trafficking networks. This was achieved by granting
online access to the INTERPOL 124/7 system at all border crossings for the first time. Additionally, four
strategic border crossings with drug producing countries were selected for the installation of an advanced
C4ISR(Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance)
system. Furthermore, airspace control was also significantly improved with the introduction of newly
manufactured 3D active long-range radars in the northern border. Furthermore, investment in drug
treatments showed an increase of almost 800% between 2015 and 2018, allowing more people to be
treated. Individuals that accessed care went from 3451 in 2015 to 5283 in 2018. These policies
contributed a large amount to the amount of drugs that were seized, with cocaine having the most
considerable increase, with a total of more than 15 tons of cocaine seized. Never in history was this much
cocaine ever seized as in 2017. Furthermore, the government also invested in the establishment of
afterschool programs and recreational activities aimed to keep younger generation away from drugs,
providing them a safer environment and provided them with skills to resist peer pressure Social policies
may be assessed by analysing four clear outputs: • Inputs of human and material resources • Legislation
and agreements • Direct results • Effect on other variables Argentina significantly improved its situation,
including improvements in cooperative security, border and airspace control, statistics gathering, law
enforcement accountability, legislation, 7 precursor chemical control and money laundering prevention.
Positive direct results can also be confirmed as cocaine and marijuana seizures grew 126% and 60%
respectively, and drug offences registered grew by 147%, and federal law enforcement operations grew by
100%. However despite these efforts that were implemented in 2016-2019, drug use in the country had
still grown, with 275 million people claiming they had used an illicit substance. Current drug policies face
significant challenges in many regions of the world. While some countries have found success in
eradicating the drug market and enforcing bans on drug possession with the intention of protecting public
health and safety, the same formula does not work for everyone. Many factors, of course, affect the
increase in the use and production of drugs. What can be observed, though, is that numerous factors
influence the increase in the use and production of drugs.Such measures will not only be
counterproductive, they come at a high cost: we now know that drug control measures can adversely
affect communities, and we must explore new models to balance the need for drug control with respect
for human dignity, privacy and the rule of law. This looks towards more effective and humane drug
policies by adhering to context specific and evidence based strategies while ensuring the safety and
well-being of future generations. As a result, it is necessary to explore new ways that respect the
principles of human dignity, the right to privacy, the right to law, and ensure the safety of future
generations. Reevaluating Global Drug Policy: Implications for Education: The War on Drugs, initiated in
the 1980s, has had profound implications for student populations, among which are punitive measures and
access to rehabilitation. This section explores the key lessons learned from this era and its impact on
education systems. Criminalization and School Discipline: We learned that the War on Drugs, resulted in
harsh disciplinary policies being implemented in schools, namely zerotolerance policies that required all
students found guilty of a drug offense to be severely punished. This often resulted in policies that led to
the suspension or expulsion of students from schools, disproportionately impacting marginalized
communities and students of color.” Schools’ funding (or 8 lack thereof) for mental health services also
legislated what issues were important when it comes to student needs, while a more highly-policed school
culture — paid for with federal and state dollars — criminalized students’ behaviors and led to the
school-to-prison pipeline. Increased Dropout Rates: Students who face harsh disciplinary actions are more
likely to drop out of school, leading to long-term negative outcomes such as higher unemployment rates
and increased likelihood of incarceration. Mental Health Issues: The stress and stigma associated with
punitive measures can exacerbate mental health issues among students, making it harder for them to
succeed academically and socially. Disproportionate Impact on Marginalized Groups: Students from
marginalized communities, particularly Black and Latinx students, are disproportionately targeted by
these policies, leading to greater educational disparities and social inequities. Access to Rehabilitation:
The focus on punitive measures has often overshadowed the need for rehabilitation and support services
for students struggling with substance abuse. Firstly, there is limited access to rehabilitation services;
many schools lack the resources and infrastructure to provide adequate rehabilitation services, leaving
students without the support they need to overcome addiction UNODC. The barriers to seeking help
including the criminalization of drug use creates a stigma that discourages students from seeking help,
further isolating them and preventing access to necessary services. Thus, there is a need for integrated
approaches as effective drug policy reform requires introducing harm reduction and rehabilitation services
into the education system, ensuring that students have access to comprehensive support. Lessons Learned:
The War on Drugs has opened discussions over a shift from punitive measures to more supportive and
rehabilitative approaches in addressing drug abuse among students. Key measures to keep in place include
but are not limited to schools prioritizing rehabilitation and 9 support services over punitive measures to
help students recover and succeed, designing policies to address the disproportionate impact on
marginalized communities, hence ensuring equitable access to education and support services, and
creating a supportive and nonjudgmental environment in schools which can encourage students to seek
help and reduce the stigma associated with drug use. Therefore, by reevaluating global drug policies and
focusing on rehabilitation and support, education systems can better address the needs of students and
create a more inclusive and equitable environment. Approaches to Combatting Drug Abuse
Decriminalization and Education: Decriminalization, in general, means the removal of criminal penalties
for violations of drug law (typically possession for personal use). About two dozen nations have made
moves to decriminalize. Laws that decriminalize possession and investing in treatment and harm
reduction services can reduce the harms of drug misuse, improve public safety and health. From an
education standpoint, this is yet another example of closing the gap — eliminating stigma, while making
rehabilitation resources readily available to students. It reframes the approach to drugs away from
punishment and towards health and support, which has the potential to reduce the stigma attached to drug
use significantly. This report aims to reduce that fear by making it easier for students to seek help when
needed without fear of criminalization and social ostracization. In some countries, it may be reasonable to
treat drug use as a public health issue rather than a criminal one. This lens can broaden perspectives and
generate a more compassionate approach to build a studentcentered environment. Strategies for reducing
arrests and incarceration by decriminalizing drug possession, in addition to investing in treatment and
harm reduction services, can yield significant public safety and health benefits, such as: • Reducing the
number of people arrested • Reducing the number of people incarcerated • Cost-reduction of criminal
justice and transfer of resources from criminal justice to health systems • Redirecting law enforcement
resources to prevent serious and violent crime 10 • Reducing racially discriminatory outcomes in drug law
enforcement and sentencing, imprisonment and health, and adverse health determinants • Reducing the
social marginalization of people who use drugs, and fostering an environment that makes them less afraid
to seek and access treatment, use harm reduction services and have access to HIV/AIDS services •
Protecting people from the wideranging and debilitating consequences of a criminal conviction Less
stigma is breaking down the bad social stereotypes and perception of drug use and leads into discussing
drug use and its dangers, that will free up a lot of people. It can also positively impact the mental health of
students. Students are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors and seek help as needed when they feel
supported instead of judged. Additionally, most students require rehabilitative services (such as
counseling, therapy or support groups) and this makes up the bulk amount times, at least to help students
stabilize and do well in school. Case Study: Canada British Columbia introduced a pilot program in 2023
to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of certain hard drugs. This program aimed to reduce the
stigma associated with drug use and encourage people to seek help without fear of arrest. However, a year
later, the program faced scrutiny and uncertainty due to public concerns about potential negative
consequences. The program in BC permits adults to possess up to 2.5 grams of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine,
or methamphetamine without facing arrest, charges, or drug seizure. This exemption does not apply in
areas like schools and airports. Initial data shows positive results, with a 76% reduction in drug
possession charges within the program's first year and increased utilization of drug checking and overdose
prevention services. The program has faced pushback due to an increase in opioid-related toxicity deaths
by almost 5% since decriminalization. However, officials attribute this rise to the presence of illicit
fentanyl in the drug supply rather than decriminalization itself. This presents a complex and evolving
situation. While initial data points to positive outcomes in reducing drug possession charges and
promoting harm reduction strategies, the policy faces challenges in garnering public 11 support and
addressing concerns regarding public safety. The long-term effects and success of the program remain to
be seen as the pilot continues until 2026. Legalization and Regulation: Legalization involves making the
production, sale and use of a substance legal under certain conditions. It involves changing the legal status
of the substance to allow legal regulation. It aims to reduce the harms of the illegal drug market and make
sure the substance is safe for consumer use. Regulation is the control of the production, distribution and
sale of drugs. This includes setting age limits, quality control, licensing producers and retailers and public
education campaigns. Case Study: Uruguay Uruguay holds the position of the first country to fully
legalize and regulate its cannabis market in 2013 with Law 19.172 . Issue this for the sake of public
health, what considering the role of illegal drug market. Cannabis cultivation, production and
commercialization are regulated by the Uruguayan Institute for the Regulation and Control of Cannabis
(IRCCA). The law includes three types of access: selfcultivation; membership in cannabis clubs; and
purchase from licensed pharmacies. The regulation regulates the strength, quality and restrict the use of
the cannabis. Allowing legal access leads the policy to have less appeal to the illegal market. But there are
concerns that legalization might diminish the perceived risks of using cannabis by young people and lead
to increased use. Uruguay holds the position of the first country to fully legalize and regulate its cannabis
market in 2013 with Law 19.172 . Issue this for the sake of public health, what considering the role of
illegal drug market. Cannabis cultivation, production and commercialization are regulated by the
Uruguayan Institute for the Regulation and Control of Cannabis (IRCCA). The law includes three types of
access: selfcultivation; membership in cannabis clubs; and purchase from licensed pharmacies. The
regulation regulates the strength, quality and restrict the use of the cannabis. Allowing legal access leads
the policy to have less appeal to the illegal market. But there are concerns that legalization might diminish
the perceived risks of using cannabis by young people and lead to increased use. 12 Case Study: Canada
Under the Cannabis Act, Canada legalized cannabis for recreational use in October 2018. The Act is
designed to protect public health and safety, prevent youth access to cannabis and reduce the illegal
market. The Cannabis Act establishes stringent controls on the production, distribution, sale and
possession of cannabis. That includes plain packaging, health warnings and codes concerning advertising
to limit youth exposure. This method of prevention relies on age restrictions and education to keep youth
away from cannabis. Harm reduction and informed decision making: Schools are encouraged to teach
drug education in schools. But there is still disagreement over whether these measures have been effective
at preventing youth cannabis use. Under the Cannabis Act, Canada legalized cannabis for recreational use
in October 2018. The Act is designed to protect public health and safety, prevent youth access to cannabis
and reduce the illegal market. The Cannabis Act establishes stringent controls on the production,
distribution, sale and possession of cannabis. That includes plain packaging, health warnings and codes
concerning advertising to limit youth exposure. This method of prevention relies on age restrictions and
education to keep youth away from cannabis. Harm reduction and informed decision making: Schools are
encouraged to teach drug education in schools. But there is still disagreement over whether these
measures have been effective at preventing youth cannabis use. Global Enforcement Mechanisms:
Balancing Treaty Obligations with Local Educational Needs: The global fight against drug abuse is
governed by a complex framework of international treaties and agreements, which is enforced mainly by
the UNODC. The international drug control legal framework is established in a series of international
treaties, including the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, the Convention on Psychotropic Substances,
and the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.
However, reconciling these treaty obligations with the particular imperatives of local educational systems
involves distinct challenges and opportunities. 13 Treaty Obligations: International treaties mandate that
member states implement strict measures to control the production, distribution, and consumption of
narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. These measures include criminalizing unauthorized activities
related to these substances and ensuring that drug control policies are in line with international standards.
Challenges in Balancing Obligations with Local Needs: There is a debate between rigid enforcement and
educational flexibility as strict enforcement of drug laws can sometimes conflict with the need for
flexible, education-focused approaches to drug prevention and rehabilitation. Schools require the ability
to implement tailored programs that address the specific needs of their student populations without being
hindered by overly rigid legal frameworks. International obligations often require significant resources for
law enforcement and compliance. This can divert funds away from educational initiatives and support
services that are crucial for preventing drug abuse among students. The effectiveness of drug policies can
vary greatly depending on local cultural and social contexts. Policies that work well in one country may
not be as effective in another, highlighting the need for localized approaches that respect international
obligations while addressing specific community needs .There is a debate between rigid enforcement and
educational flexibility as strict enforcement of drug laws can sometimes conflict with the need for
flexible, education-focused approaches to drug prevention and rehabilitation. Schools require the ability
to implement tailored programs that address the specific needs of their student populations without being
hindered by overly rigid legal frameworks. International obligations often require significant resources for
law enforcement and compliance. This can divert funds away from educational initiatives and support
services that are crucial for preventing drug abuse among students. The effectiveness of drug policies can
vary greatly depending on local cultural and social contexts. Policies that work well in one country may
not be as effective in another, highlighting the need for localized approaches that respect international
obligations while addressing specific community needs. 14 Emerging Threats to Students in the Digital
Age: Drug abuse has proven to be a prevalent issue in the education system primarily due to its increased
accessibility over time. This has made the means of obtaining drugs easier through the use of online
platforms and internet websites. As a result, there is a dire need for the reevaluation of objectives in order
to understand the root cause of the problem and cater towards the issue at hand On the other hand,
increased import prices can lead to higher inflation. The initial effects of devaluation may also include
lower wages, which can harm the lower class. If not managed correctly, the currency’s value will continue
to plummet, even below the intended value. Online Drug Markets: The mode of the drug trade has moved
from conventional measures such as cross border trading and has now spread to the rising trends in the
digital age. While traditional drug trade still occurs in several parts of the world, it is now being
challenged by online forms. Social Media Sites: According to a FBI report, Drug transactions are also
taking place on encrypted applications and even on wellknown and mainstream social media platforms A
case study on this phenomenon was conducted in Ohio and it was found that many people who had been
arrested were college students who were thoroughly versed in this trade. Drugs are typically sold online
using various means including social media pages which are designated selling places for these. Drug
traffickers advertise on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. They post 24 hour
disappearing stories and posts which are then deleted. These posts use code words and emojis as a
marketing tactic to communicate the type of drug being sold to the purchaser. Prospective buyers contact
drug traffickers on social media apps after seeing their ads – either through direct message or by
commenting on a post. Once the contact is established, drug traffickers and buyers use encrypted
messaging apps such as WhatsApp to further the deal. Significant structural changes like privatization
were also required to transform the country’s administration and improve Greece’s international standing.
These included decreased pensions, wages, and the Emergency Special Property Tax (EETIDE), ranging
from €3 to €16 per square meter of property. 15 Although these conditions were intended to restore fiscal
stability, things did not go as planned. The harsh conditions led to an economic recession, with much
higher suicide and homelessness rates and unemployment reaching 12.7%1 . Greece was forced to sign a
second bailout agreement in 2012. This also proved futile since the political instability and civil unrest
made it challenging to implement IMF’s conditions effectively. There was also a perception among the
Greek people that their economic policies were dictated by foreign powers. Further pension and wage cuts
were made, though the lowest-paid workers received protection from these cuts. This prevented further
civil unrest. However, Greece’s second IMF program did not fully restore economic growth or public
trust. Public debt had increased to 177% of GDP by 2014. Thus, Greece entered a third IMF program in
2015. While it more successfully stabilized the economy, it left Greece with a legacy of high debt and
socio-political scars. The Dark Web: The Dark Web is an unregulated part of the internet which functions
by concealing the IP addresses. The first prominent dark web online platform was Silk Road established
in 2011. Ever since, numerous smaller sites have been emerging. Due to its comparatively unregulated
internet presence, it becomes difficult for the authorities to be able to find out who is purchasing from
there. It was found that online sites functioning like the corporation Amazon were selling a wide variety
of drugs. Teenagers tend to purchase from these sites with one teenager from Calgary, Canada stating that
the variety of drugs provided in these sites cannot be compared to other means of obtaining drugs. The
teenager also claimed that the drugs were mailed to him through Canada Post and were well hidden in a
cushion which further reiterates the fact that the Dark Web has a faceless presence. 16 Cryptocurrencies:
The use of cryptocurrencies is interlinked with both the Dark Web and Social Media. In essence,
cryptocurrency is used by Organised Crime Groups (OCGs) As mentioned earlier, Silk Road also used
cryptocurrencies to carry out their transactions. However, the primary use of cryptocurrency as compared
to conventional forms is due to the fact that it is still privately regulated. Vendors on sites such as Silk
Road use prefer cryptocurrencies as the form of payment since it is difficult to track and find the source of
these payments Synthetic Drugs and Research Chemicals: Synthetic drugs, also known as designer drugs
or Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS) are those drugs that have been chemically altered and have
similar effects of a hallucinogen or a narcotic. Their primary aim is to bypass legal restrictions on illegal
substances. As a result, these drugs are often marketed as “Research Chemicals” the companies that
manufacture said drugs often make changes in each individual batch in order to avoid detection and
punishment under the law. Examples of synthetic drugs include: Spice, bath salts, fentanyl and MDMA.
Challenges: A major challenge in tackling the rise of synthetic drugs is its discretionary nature. The
manufacturers of these drugs employ various techniques in order to avoid being caught and punished. Due
to their contemporary presence, many drug conventions fail to address their presence and risks.
Furthermore, due to the absence of frameworks dealing with this new class of drugs, there are many
loopholes created which are exploited by OCGs. For instance, slight changes are made to the chemical
structures in these drugs so that they do not come under the legal definition for an illegal drug yet they
still have the same effects. that South and East Asia have an entire pharmaceutical trading network which
is part of the global supply chain of these drugs. Due to the limited oversight and the absence of
regulations on advertising synthetic drugs, has resulted in a wide variety of input materials that are used to
manufacture these drugs, with most of them being very inexpensive and unverified. This has led to
consumers reporting seizures after taking fentanyl. The use of digital means to through unregulated 17
websites has proved to be a challenge since OCGs are using these platforms to find clients and purchase
the required equipment for processing synthetic drugs. The use of encryption technologies makes it
increasingly difficult to track these groups and their activities. Prevention Strategies for Digital Threats:
Digital Literacy Campaigns: A potential avenue of reform can be the introduction of digital campaigns
aimed directly at students in order to foster healthy and educational discussions on the rise of online
markets. White countries have adopted programs to educate the youth on drugs, there is little work done
specifically on the domain of online drug markets. This is due to drug conventions focusing on a more
active techniques of managing the issue by tackling it from its root cause however there is a need for more
softer approaches. International Cooperation: While charters have been signed to curb drug trafficking by
organisations such as the UNODC, the area around online drug supply chains have not fully been
addressed due to the nuances in identifying the source and tackling the issue. The question of
accountability also arises if a OCG is not part of one country but is located in several. Addressing Drug
Abuse through Partnerships and Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation Centers: Linking institutions who deal with
drug abuse among students and drug abusers in this regard, here is another solution. We have to start
youth-focused rehabilitation centers near educational institutions. These centers serve to provide students
accessibility to support and treatment for their substance abuse, but to also not disrupt their education.
With the convenience of nearby services, a rehabilitation program can be integrated into a student’s daily
life in order to help ensure a support- and recovery-focused life. If drug abuse is a chronic problem we
have to deal with, then we should be promoting rehabilitation and treatment rather than exposing people
to punishment. Zero tolerance policy, like suspension or expulsion, doesn't help either discipline the
matter. Rehabilitation-centric policies, on the other hand, are centered around the recovery and well-being
of students, as they 18 tackle the underlying issues surrounding their drug use and impart the resources
they need to combat addiction. These include on-campus rehabilitation programs at many universities and
colleges. These programs include counseling, therapy, and support groups and a familiar and accessible
environment, the campus. Partnering with mental health organizations can improve rehabilitation
effectiveness by analyzing the specialized expertise and resources. The National Alliance on Mental
Illness (NAMI) and Mental Health Partnerships (MHP) are among organizations that provide support,
training and advocacy for students in need. All of these partnerships allow students to have access to a
wide range of services for mental health and/or substance abuse, furthering a holistic approach to
recovery. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the students and parents about the dangers of drug
abuse and the available support systems help create awareness and prevent drug abuse in their initial
stage. Such campaigns strive to form an educated populace able to effectively challenge and lessen the
effects of drug abuse on its youth. Many initiatives aimed at preventing drug abuse through public
awareness campaigns aimed at providing parents and educators with the methods to educate students
about the health risks of drug use, both short-term and long-term, the risk of addiction, and the effects on
academic performance and future life opportunities. Such campaigns empower students to make informed
choices in order to avoid succumbing to peer pressure. Drug education should be integrated into school
curriculums to prevent early drug abuse. Programmes like UNODC’s “Listen First” initiative highlight the
importance of listening to children and youth to help them grow healthy and safe. Conclusion Therefore,
drug education programs play a vital role in equipping teachers and educators with the necessary skills
and resources to effectively educate students about the dangers of drug use. The importance of engaging
the parents within public awareness campaigns strengthens the home environment to make it feel
conducive. Parents are educated about the signs of drug use, effective communication strategies, and ways
to provide support and guidance to their children. Workshops, informational materials and online
resources geared toward parents are often part of campaigns. Examples of Successful Campaigns: 19 •
Every year on June 26th, as part of the international campaign led by the United Nations Office on Drugs
and Crime (UNODC), World Drug Day is celebrated to raise awareness about the world drug problem.
The campaign focuses on the need for evidence-based prevention and treatment strategies and urges
communities to take action against drug abuse. • Listen First” Initiative: This UNODC initiative aims to
promote evidence-based awareness of the prevention of drug use. Its goal is to foster children and youth
well-being by inspiring parents, teachers, and policymakers to listen to youth and give them the support
they need in order to be healthy and resilient. Peer Mentorship: Peer mentorship programs harness peer
influence to provide support, guidance, and education around the risk of drug use. Peer mentors give the
facts about drug use, provide personal experiences, and emotional support for their peers. They can
encourage an environment of collaboration in which students are able to talk about their concerns and ask
for support in a safe space. Integrating Drug Education into Curriculums: This is a really important issue
because we need to educate students on the do’s/don'ts when it comes to substance use. Such education
should be age-appropriate, evidence-based and culturally responsive. Cuts must be introduced for poor
performing drug education programs which must be integrated into the general health education
curriculum. Such educational programs, the Department added, should include information on drug
effects on the body and mind, the dangers of drug use, and ways to resist peer pressure. They utilize the
teaching methods of interactive and dynamic as group discussions, role-play, and multimedia
presentations. Studies have shown that comprehensive drug education programs can significantly reduce
the prevalence of drug use among students. For example, schools that implement interactive and engaging
drug education programs report lower rates of substance abuse compared to those that do no A successful
example is UNESCO's drug education programs which provide an overview of opportunities for drug
prevention through education. These programs highlight the importance of integrating drug education into
school 20 curriculums and using interactive teaching methods to engage students. Role of International
Organizations: UNODC: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) plays a pivotal role
in supporting youth-focused rehabilitation and harm reduction initiatives. The UNODC's Strategy for
2021-2025 underscores youth empowerment as a cross-cutting commitment, emphasizing the importance
of involving young people in problemsolving and decision-making processes. The Youth Empowerment
Accelerator Framework (YEA Framework) maps out UNODC's youth-focused initiatives and proposes
key actions to accelerate the impact of young people across the Office. These initiatives aim to build more
resilient societies and find solutions to problems related to drugs, crime and corruption. WHO: The World
Health Organization (WHO) is a leading advocate for evidencebased harm reduction strategies. Harm
reduction is a critical approach to engaging with people who use drugs, equipping them with life-saving
tools and information to create positive change in their lives. WHO promotes harm reduction as a key
pillar in addressing substance use disorders, emphasizing the importance of prevention, risk reduction,
and health promotion. These strategies include providing access to naloxone to reverse overdoses, syringe
services programs, and other communitydriven public health initiatives. WHO reports that harm reduction
strategies have been effective in reducing the transmission of HIV and other infectious diseases among
people who use drugs. For example, needle and syringe programs have been shown to reduce HIV
transmission by up to 33%. UNESCO: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) advocates for education as a powerful tool to combat drug abuse. UNESCO's
preventive education programs aim to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to make
informed decisions about drug use. These programs emphasize the importance of integrating drug
education into school curriculums and using interactive teaching methods to engage students. UNESCO
also highlights the role of parents and communities in reinforcing the messages delivered in 21 schools
and creating a supportive environment for students. Balancing Harm Reduction and Prevention in
Schools: The need to address the population regarding Drug abuse, and providing them with adequate
care and harm reduction programs is essential, especially in low and middle-income countries. Once again
addressing the issue with current policies around the world, the predominant government response to this
issue is enact policies that criminalize those who use and/or possess drugs. Such policies, which were
backed by the UN drug control treaties from 1961 to 1988, were implemented with the hope that drug use
and the wider drug market can be reduced and finished. These policies have had varying degrees of
success. In recent times, there is growing evidence that these measures can sometimes lead to unintended
consequences, such as health and social issues. Many countries have implemented punishments that are
disproportionate to the crime, which has largely affected communities in the region. A new approach is
necessary for countries where past measures have proved to be inadequate and have not properly
addressed the consequences of the drug problem. Drug usage has fueled a global pandemic of HIV and
hepatitis C, that does not discriminate against an individual by their class, race, gender, or ethnicity.
Globally, of the 16 million people who inject drugs, approximately two-thirds are living with hepatitis C
and at least 13 percent with HIV, with many at a heightened risk of contracting tuberculosis. Although
these ailments can be treated, the stigma and the marginalization of people who use drugs, contribute to
treatments not being scaled up or reaching these populations. Additionally, many countries deny
much-needed services by placing legal restrictions on the provision of clean injecting equipment and
opioid substitution therapy, both of which are well-evidenced interventions that prevent the transmission
of HIV and hepatitis C. It is vital that the focus should be shifted from a criminal justice response towards
a health care response that does not result in supplanting one repressive model with another. A number of
countries utilize compulsory and/or non-evidence-based drug treatment and claim to do so in the name of
public health, despite such interventions actively undermining it. A public health approach must recognize
the social, economic and environmental conditions that are often underlying reasons for the drug use. It is
22 through these understandings that the threat of infectious diseases can be truly mitigated, creating a
safer environment in the educational sector as well as the public sphere. In many lower to middle income
countries, the language to express mental health problems is not readily available. Often, the stigma
surrounding mental health is so great that people hide their relatives with a known mental health problem
or condition which they cannot easily explain. These individuals may resort to self medicating with drug
use, as it helps control their symptoms and effects. The need for these individuals to avail medical help,
and get proper rehab facilities is of utmost importance. Australia, for example, diverts people caught in
possession of drugs away from the criminal justice system towards a rehabilitation system, reducing both
the frequency and the harms associated with drug use, while improving physical and mental health. It is
only with substantial investment in harm reduction and treatment services that the health problem
primarily associated with problematic use can be mitigated. Developing rehabilitation focused policies to
replace punitive measures like suspension or expulsion in schools, can better target and reduce harm to
children in education, without having them removed completely from educational facilities. Considering
that students face large degree of punishment globally, it is arguable that entire generations of young
people are at risk of continued offending initiated by an arrest for drug possession, thus damaging their
lives and placing an even greater burden on law enforcement and the state. While substance use disorder
continues to be a global concern, harm reduction approaches can provide sustainable harm minimization
to people who inject drugs. Harm minimization approaches appear to hold promise for those with a
history of dependance not wishing to obtain abstinence. Harm reduction also includes the incorporation of
lifesaving health services, such as Needle and Syringe programs(NSPs). These are community based
initiatives designed to reduce the spread of infectious diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis, among people
who inject drugs, providing people with sterile needles, syringes, and sharp bins. NSPs also supply
naloxone, aluminium foil for smoking, cookers, sterile swabs, drug checking strips, and sachets of citric
acid for dissolving and injecting brown heroin or crack cocaine. Sustainable NSPs, are human centered,
cost effective, socially embedded, aligned to the health policies of jurisdiction. NSPs have had
considerable 23 effect on populations suffering from HIV, with reviews reporting up to 50% risk
reduction. Furthermore, NSPs that provide naloxone have been shown to decrease opioid overdose deaths.
In addition, studies have demonstrated new users of NSPs are five times more likely to enter drug
treatment and three times more likely to stop using drugs compared to those who have not used the
program. Harm reduction programs are of importance in educational institutes as they aim to reduce the
negative consequences associated with drug use amongst students. These programs focus on providing
education, resources, and support to promote safer practices. Programs often include educational
campaigns, to inform students about the risks associated with drug use, and the availability of harm
reduction services. Institutes may advocate syringe service programs, providing clean needles and
syringes to students who use injectable drugs, reducing the risk for several diseases. Institutions may also
adopt passive strategies, such as peer education programs, whereby students educate their peers about the
risk associated with drug use and availability of harm reduction sources, or by creating harm reduction
policies, effectively reducing the stigma around drug usage, and promote a non-judgemental and
supportive environment for students who use drugs. These policies include amnesty policies for students
seeking help during a drug related incident. Incorporating harm-reducing policies that have a focus on
public health is important to consider, keeping in mind the context of the population. Various factors
influence an individual's life, that may range from economic disparity, to upbringing conditions, that
make them suffer from substance use disorder, and providing these individuals with adequate healthcare
service may be a step in the right direction. The most important stakeholder that any state should consider
is the wellbeing of its own citizens, and its future generations. Global assistance is required to curb the
harm produced by the overuse or abuse of drugs. Member states should work together to achieve better
healthcare for their citizens. Economic and Social Dimensions Funding Prevention and Rehabilitation
Programs: One innovative approach to funding prevention and rehabilitation programs is the utilization of
tax revenues generated from the legalization of substances such as cannabis. By redirecting these funds,
24 governments can support the establishment and maintenance of school-based and youth-focused
rehabilitation centers. This strategy not only provides necessary resources for combating drug abuse but
also ensures that the benefits of legalization are reinvested into public health and education systems.
Legalizing and taxing cannabis has proven to be a significant source of revenue for many states. For
example, in 2022, states across the U.S. collected nearly $4 billion in cannabis tax revenue. These funds
can be allocated to various public services, including education and rehabilitation programs. States like
Colorado and Nevada have allocated substantial portions of their cannabis tax revenue to support public
education systems. In Colorado, the state’s marijuana excise tax includes a 15% wholesale tax, with the
first $40 million of that revenue exclusively reserved for spending on public school construction.
Similarly, Nevada directed $147 million of its adult-use cannabis tax revenues into the state’s K-12
education system budget in 2022. Through tax revenues generated from legalized substances, states can
establish a sustainable funding stream for both prevention and rehabilitation initiatives. By approaching
drug policy in this way, it responds to the economic aspects of the drug problem while maximizing the
social benefits of legalization. Alternative Development Programs: Supporting Regions Reliant on Drug
Cultivation to Reduce Global Supply and Its Impact on Youth The ultimate best anti-drug policy is to help
the regions that rely on drug cultivation and are riddled with toxicity and crime with sustainable and legal
ways to live, thus cutting back on not only the global supply of drugs but also helping to shrink the
availability of drugs to youth. Alternative development is a multidimensional and multifaceted strategy
that consist of much more than substituting illegal crops with legal ones. Building sustainable livelihoods,
developing infrastructure, and promoting community development. Alternative development programs
focus on sustainable solutions that help communities shift away from illegal drug cultivation, as they
address your point around the underlying drivers of drug production — the poverty and limited economic
opportunities that push communities towards coca or opium poppy cultivation. 25 These programs aim to
give farmers economically sustainable alternatives to drug production. These include promoting the
cultivation of high-value crops, supporting entrepreneurship, and enhancing market access for legal
products. Involving communities in decision making processes through initiatives that strengthen local
governance structures. The focus of development efforts shifts according to the needs of specific groups,
ensuring that both the communities are at the forefront of aid. Alternative development programs are vital
in preventing the abuse of drugs among the youth as well since these programs reduce the global supply
of illicit drugs. They can increase the availability of positive programs and opportunities that result in less
drug availability, access, and thus consumption among youth. Furthermore, this addresses some of the
root causes of drug abuse, especially among youth by offering economic opportunities and improving
people's living conditions through alternative development programs. For the last 25 years, UNODC has
also been at the forefront of supporting Member States in formulating and implementing alternative
development policies. Colombia is one such successful example where alternative development programs
have effectively succeeded in transitioning coca-growing communities into licit agricultural activities.
These programs have created technical assistance, helped build appropriate infrastructure, and improved
access to markets for legal products, all leading to dramatic reductions in the area under coca cultivation.
The area of coca under cultivation thus dropped 58% between 2000 and 2010 thanks to these efforts. In
Afghanistan, by contrast, alternative development efforts have targeted the planting of high-value crops
like saffron and pomegranates. Farmers have benefitted from these programs with increased income of up
to 700% whilst decreasing the dependence on opium poppy cultivation with sustainable and profitable
alternatives. Education as a Social Equalizer: How Comprehensive Drug Prevention and Rehabilitation
Programs Address Social Inequalities Moreover, you are eligible to study data as of October 2023.
Holistic drug prevention and rehabilitation programs can be effective tools to reduce the negative impact
of drug abuse and foster social equity. The goal of such interventions is that every student, no matter their
socioeconomic status, has equal access to education and support services. 26 Comprehensive drug
prevention programs are those in which students receive accurate, relevant, and useful information about
the risks of using drugs. While helping students recognize the dangers of drug abuse helps them to make
informed choices and avoid giving in to peer pressure. Also, rehabilitation programs provide supportive
services like counseling, therapy, and peer support groups. By 2022 alone, you were already working with
thousands of students who were using drugs, and these necessary services help college students who
struggle with addiction and need assistance for their addiction and academic path. This sets a good
precedent for implementing these inclusive policies in that this will prevent students with drug abuse
problems by reducing the barriers to education, and instead provide support by promoting rehabilitation.
Moving away from punishment to support and recovery is a positive step towards helping all students feel
welcome and supported at school. And addressing social inequalities requires ensuring equitable access to
drug prevention and rehabilitation programs. It must reach all students, especially those who are
marginalized and underserved, and ensure they have access to the support they need to thrive.. The
UNODC Listen First, Super Skills program is designed primarily to teach primary-age years children
social and emotional skills. Through the promotion of these skills, the program works to reduce substance
use and build a sense of community among all young people — in all economic situations. Research
indicates that students who participate in drug prevention programs are more likely to complete their
education and achieve higher academic performance. This is particularly significant for students from
disadvantaged backgrounds, who often face additional barriers to educational success. Bloc Positions The
bloc positions include progressive nations and conservative nations. Progressive nations tend to have a
softer approach in handling the drug issue with a focus on rehabilitation while conservative countries have
a more strict outlook with a focus on penalties. Progressive Countries Policies in these countries have a
strong focus on legalization and decriminalization. Legalization is the removal of all penalties (civil and
criminal) for both the possession and personal drug use while decriminalization involves the 27 removal
of criminal penalties while civil penalties still apply. Examples include Uruguay’s Cannabis Regulation
Bill which allows citizens to grow cannabis for their own consumption and purchase up to 10 milligrams
per week either with or without a prescription. The EU has also adopted the EU Drugs Strategy 2021-25
with a focus on public health, improving the wellbeing of the individual and society as a whole along with
aims to increase health literacy. However, there are more assertive policies such as tackling the problem
of NPS. Conservative Countries: On the other hand, conservative policies have a comparatively hard
approach with the aim to statistically reduce crime rates. For instance, China’s Drug Control Law under
the National Narcotics Control Commission (NNCC) has 41 member units as well as police officers in
order to organise coordinate, and guide national drug control work. There is a focus on youth education as
well as having heavy penalties for the offenses. In the case of Russia, from 1990-2004, anyone found in
possession of upto 0.005 grams of any hard drug will be imprisoned for 5-7 years. At present, Harm
Reduction Programs are still controversial and are regarded with suspicion by law enforcement agencies
while The drug dependence treatment system is still heavily centralized. International Organisations:
Various UN bodies such as UNESCO, UNODC and WHO have made consistent efforts in curbing the
effect of the drug trade in education systems. For instance, the UNODC has released a handbook with a
comprehensive plan on educating school children at all levels (Junior, middle and senior) about the
harmful effects of drugs and how to protect themselves as well as providing comprehensive teaching
sources and strategies. While the WHO has introduced a guide detailing how countries can create and
implement a drug policy effectively. Reevaluating Drug Policy: Solutions to this issue are many and
complex, with there being no one-for-all solution. Solutions should ideally target the issue at its core. It
should be clear that decriminalization, legalization, and criminalization should be explored with a critical
lens, objectively looking at their effect on the crime rate, improving public health outcomes, and looking
at the feasibility of it all in relation to state resources. 28 An effective drug policy balances harm
reduction and prevention efforts. It should also be investigated, how effective are harm reduction
strategies, such as needle and syringe programs, supervised injection sites, and opioid substitution therapy
in reducing the spread of infectious diseases and preventing overdose deaths. A critical component of
drug policy reform is addressing health disparities, particularly in developing nations. Ensuring access to
comprehensive rehabilitation and mental health services can significantly improve public health
outcomes. Exploration of actions to detect and strengthen the public health sector is indicated. Effective
drug policy reform must address the socio economic factors fuelling drug abuse too. Central Area/Region:
Poverty and Unemployment One of the major factors that causes regions to be prone to drug abuse.
People suffering in these conditions could resort to drug as a coping mechanism or as a certain source of
income. Moreover, such situations can restrict their access to education and healthcare and, as a result,
possibly push these people towards drug abuse. Contesting Drug Use and Psychedelics Reform to
Education:Education is severely essential also as it provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to
resist drug use, serving as early intervention. Quality programs where students return to school after
rehabilitation need to be developed so that it will be a smooth transition back into the educational system.
Above all, because drug trade is by its nature international, so is national drug reform: international
cooperation is required for effective drug reform. Drug trafficking is usually a multi-national affairs, and
traffickers take advantage of differences in laws, enforcement capabilities and borders — to move drugs
from the places where they are produced to the places where they are consumed. This will limit
traffickers' use of legal loopholes and inconsistencies to their advantage; therefore consistency in the
policies is significant. Subsequently, this also helps countries to fight one common issue mutually.
Developed countries can provide financial aid and technical support to developing nations to help them
build law enforcement, healthcare and rehabilitation facilities. Drug problems are complex and require
comprehensive solutions that integrate various sectors, including health, law, education, and social
services. International cooperation fosters the development of holistic approaches that address all aspects
of the issue. 29 Conclusion History is an imperative tool for informatively contextualizing global
response, evaluation, and adaptation of drug policies. This issue’s magnitude is one of global alarm and
thus requires the negligence of sequestered border constraints, substituted for the adaptation of worldwide
cooperation to strategically protest the issue. The prevalence of drug use amongst students is of greatest
significance and hence, the need for targeted interventions within educational environments is highest.
The prioritization of harm reduction is imminent to aid the suffering population suffering from substance
use disorders. Policies must be engineered such that education and resources are easily accessible for
students to make informed decisions. With the presence of the technological era, the risk of external
negative influences are heightened. The concern is further amplified by the rise of emerging synthetic
drugs that have seen a rise in use especially among the younger generation. Effective collaboration would
be the illustration of facilitated implementation of rehabilitation programs, execution of harm reduction
strategies, supersized accessibility and fortified support systems. Moreover, it is important to
acknowledge socio-economic factors like poverty, unemployment and lack of access to education and
health that construct societies highly vulnerable to drug abuse. The long-term implementation of such
strategies that take into consideration aforementioned risk factors, will allow for states to strategize
against drug abuse. This can be done via social welfare programs, higher quality education and
healthcare, thus releasing the socioeconomic pressure contributing towards heightened exposure to
substance abuse. Member states should also take into consideration the influence of drugs among
adolescents and its impacts on educational institutes. Moreover, the promotion of social inclusion,
educational programs and support of marginalized populations will construct a resilient society. It is
crucial to note here the cultural and social barriers that make a universalized objective solution
impossible. As societies are different from region to region, it is crucial to account for these variable
contexts of countries when strategizing frameworks. Moreover, appropriate policies have to be adjusted
because each country has its own culture, politics and reality. Overcoming this mental 30 block is at the
center of any good reform campaign, and there will need to be a global strategy around how this is best
considered. When imagining solutions to drug abuse, global cooperation is essential. Thus, member states
must work together and plan together, to be able to offer a model for global drug reform. They will be the
basis of smart policy making that will prevent needless loss of life all around the globe. Questions a
Resolution Must Answer • How can we address the influence of synthetic drugs, social media, and the
internet on drug abuse among students? • What strategies can be applied in the education system to
mitigate disparities and social factors that lead to drug abuse? • How can we facilitate and reevaluate
rehabilitation-focused policies for schools while upholding institutional safety? • While creating a
comprehensive drug-prevention program, what can the government or education board introduce into
their curriculums and education programs/systems? • To combat drug abuse in educational settings, how
can international organizations and member states cohesively combat drug abuse? • What are changes that
can be made to global drug policy to make it socio-economically equitable? • What policies can be
implemented to accommodate victims of poor mental sickness due to drug abuse in the educational
sector? (think of resources or programs in the setting) • How can we ensure that antidrug policies and
checks are not used to racially profile marginalized groups in schools? • What funding method is the most
appropriate when raising funds for the anti-drug abuse programs in schools? • What are a few
reintegration policies that can be applied to students after their anti-drug rehabilitation programs? 31
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