Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs

Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs is an international treaty that aims to prohibit production and supply of specific narcotic drugs and drugs with similar effects except for medical and scientific purposes. It was established in 1961 and is overseen by the United Nations.

History

The Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs was established in 1961 as a result of a merger of several international drug control treaties dating back to the 1920s. The Convention was designed to combat drug abuse by coordinated international action. It seeks to limit the possession, use, trade, distribution, import, export, manufacture and production of drugs exclusively to medical and scientific purposes.

Provisions

The Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs has several key provisions. It categorizes drugs into four schedules, with varying degrees of control. Schedule I drugs are subject to the highest level of control, while Schedule IV drugs are subject to the least. The Convention also establishes a International Narcotics Control Board to oversee and control the cultivation of plants used in the production of narcotics.

Criticisms

Despite its intentions, the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs has been criticized for its approach to drug control. Critics argue that it has led to the criminalization of drug users and has not effectively reduced drug use or the illicit drug trade.

See also

• Convention on Psychotropic Substances
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
• War on Drugs