26 June 2026
Every year, the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking reminds us of the importance of responding to substance use with humanity, compassion and evidence.
Across Europe and Central Asia, millions of people continue to face barriers to health care, social protection and recovery because of stigma, discrimination and marginalization. The latest World Drug Report estimates that more than “316 million people used drugs worldwide, while only around one in twelve people with drug use disorders received treatment. These figures remind us that access to health services, dignity and social inclusion remains far from universal” as I personally stated in Geneva, during last World Health Assembly of the WHO in May.
Behind these numbers are people, families and communities.
As members of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, we know that lasting solutions begin by meeting people where they are, respecting their dignity and ensuring that everyone has access to appropriate health and social services.
Every day, our volunteers provide outreach, testing, prevention, harm reduction, access to treatment and recovery services that improve people lives and strengthen communities.
On this International Day, we reaffirm our commitment to:
- putting people and their dignity first;
- reducing stigma and discrimination;
- improving equitable access to health and social services;
- supporting evidence-informed and humanitarian responses;
- strengthening partnerships with health organizations and partners.
We also celebrate the dedication of volunteers and professionals across our National Societies whose work demonstrates that compassion, solidarity and community engagement remain among the most effective responses to drug-related challenges.
Together, we can continue building healthier, safer and more inclusive communities.
Mauro Patti
President
European Red Cross and Red Crescent Network on HIV, TB and Substance Use (ERNA)