Agenda Item: The Legalization and Decriminalization of Controlled Substances for Medical Purposes

The global debate on drug policy has reached a critical juncture —where the lines between public health, human rights, and international law are constantly shifting. In this special session of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), delegates will grapple with one of the most pressing issues of our time: the legalization and decriminalization of controlled substances for medical use.

With countries around the world adopting varying approaches to this issue, the international community stands at a crossroads. Can the benefits of medical marijuana, psychedelics, and other controlled substances be harnessed for the treatment of serious illnesses, or does the risk of abuse outweigh the potential medical advantages? The world’s most influential policymakers will come together to address these questions, navigate the complexities of international drug conventions, and craft solutions that balance innovation with caution.

As a delegate in this high-stakes debate, you will be tasked with reconciling the need for medical advancements with the imperative of ensuring public safety. Can you help pave the way for a new global framework on drug policy—one that prioritizes health while confronting the challenges of legality, ethics, and enforcement?Study Guide