Overview

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is the branch dedicated to countering global drug problems such as addiction, overdose and drug trafficking, as well as fighting organized crime, corruption and terrorism. UNODC takes action to stop illicit activities, and works with the broader UN to create actionable steps to help counteract the root causes of drug and crime problems globally. They deploy global networks of law enforcement officers alongside doctors and social workers to help keep communities safe from drug-related issues. They also do a lot of investigative work in order to counteract corruption and promote fair and equal application of justice, as well as effective opportunities for rehabilitation. 

Topic 1: Opium Trade in Southeast Asia

The first topic will be stopping the flow of opium in Southeast Asia. The focus of this committee will be on opiates, a type of drug derived from the opium poppy plant, which is known for being highly addictive. Opioid addiction is a large problem globally, yet global opium supply is sourced from a few concentrated areas, mainly Myanmar and Afghanistan. This committee will center around the Asian Opium trade and potential methods of loosening the grip it has on the economy there. Delegates will have to consider the current lack of economic alternatives these countries have, as well as what the potential fallout would be of cutting off this supply, so detailed and considerate resolutions will be required!

Topic 2: Use of Drugs in Rehabilitation

The second topic will be medicinal uses of opioids, and managing the costs and benefits of their use. Opiates can be used medicinally, and are often used in controlled amounts in rehabilitation clinics to fight withdrawal symptoms. This practice is somewhat controversial, so delegates will have to explore the medical uses of opiates and ways to protect people from addiction and overdose. Additionally, opiates are used in other situations, such as painkillers for people in intense pain, but this can often be a gateway for misuse and addiction. Lastly, some opioids are used in end of life care, when the risk of addiction is offset by the desire to minimize pain for those in critical condition. The committee will analyze potential ways of regulating these uses in order to promote only safe and effective use of opioids. 

More information will be released in the coming months!