HRC 60: General Comments during the presentation of the HRC60/L.31/Rev1 resolution “The human rights implications of drug policy”.

 Geneve, 8 October 2025

 Statement delivered by Ambassador Vasilika Hysi, Permanent Representative

Thank you, Mr. President,

Albania as member of the core group would like to thank Colombia, Brazil, Greece, Guatemala, Mexico, Portugal, Switzerland for presenting the draft resolution L.31/Rev.

This draft resolution is the result of an extensive and inclusive negotiation process, conducted with transparency and flexibility by the core group.

We wish to sincerely thank all delegations for their constructive engagement and valuable contributions throughout the process.

The text before us today reaffirms a fundamental principle: drug policies must be rooted in human rights, dignity, public health, and the rule of law.

The draft reinforces cooperation between this Council and the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, promotes gender-responsive and non-discriminatory policies, and highlights the role of civil society and affected communities.

It also encourages States to consider alternatives to incarceration for minor drug-related offences and to ensure access to controlled medicines and harm reduction measures, in accordance with international law.

Mr. President,

The draft we have before us is balanced and forward-looking. It reflects the diversity of perspectives within our Council and strengthens cooperation between the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, UNODC, and other relevant entities. The negotiations have been open, transparent, and exhaustive, addressing all key concerns raised by Member States.

Albania therefore calls on all Member States to support the draft resolution in its current form and to vote in favour. We also urge all delegations to vote against any amendments, which would undermine the careful balance achieved through the open and constructive negotiations led by the core group.

By adopting this resolution, the Council will send a clear and unified message: that the promotion and protection of human rights must remain at the heart of all efforts to address and counter the world drug problem.

Thank you, Mr. President.