This primer focuses on HRC Resolution 60/26: The human rights implications of drug policy, adopted by consensus at the 60th session of the Human Rights Council. As the fourth HRC resolution dedicated to drug policy, it marks an important step in recognising that drug policy is not only a matter for drug control bodies in Vienna, but squarely within the mandate of the UN human rights system.
The resolution strengthens progressive UN language on harm reduction, non-discrimination, gender-responsive drug policies, Indigenous Peoples’ rights, access to controlled medicines, alternatives to incarceration, and the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment. It also includes the strongest HRC language to date on protecting civil society and affected communities. Crucially, it breaks with previous formulations by avoiding the harmful and unrealistic goal of a ‘society free of drug abuse’.
At a time when punitive drug policies continue to drive human rights violations, this primer explains what Resolution 60/26 says, why it matters, and how advocates can use it to push for rights-affirming reform. It offers practical entry points for civil society engagement with national governments and key UN bodies.
It is currently available in English.