UNITED NATIONS OFFICE ON DRUGS & CRIMES

UNODC

Imagine a farming community forced to grow illegal crops under threat from armed groups, or young people trapped into smuggling drugs across borders. When raids happen, it is often these vulnerable individuals who suffer most, while kingpins escape. Victims may face addiction, imprisonment, or social stigma with little support for recovery. At the same time, the growing debate around legalising certain psychedelics raises questions about whether regulation could reduce illegal markets or unintentionally strengthen trafficking networks.

This agenda examines the hidden networks where drugs, violence, and organised crime intersect, and the human cost that follows. It looks at how narcotics trafficking often funds terrorist groups and criminal syndicates, turning drug trade profits into weapons, recruitment, and instability.

Delegates will analyse these complex links and design strategies that weaken criminal systems while prioritising victim protection, rehabilitation, and long term social stability.