Statement by H.E. Ms. Eglantina Gjermeni,  Ambassador, Permanent Representative

at Commission on Narcotic Drugs, 68 Session, 10-14 March 2025

Madam Chair,

Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,

At a time when the world faces an evolving and complex drug problem, Albania remains steadfast in its commitment to science-based, inclusive, and sustainable solutions. The drug phenomenon spares no country or community; it affects the vulnerable, strains public institutions, and challenges the fabric of our societies. As we strive to leave no one behind, we must act together to ensure responses that are effective, balanced, and firmly rooted in evidence and cooperation.

We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to international drug policy obligations and the collective responsibility of addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by the world drug problem.

Recognizing the urgency, Albania has committed to strengthening cooperation, institutions, and evidence-based responses. At last year’s CND high-level segment, we pledged to establish two key mechanisms:

• The National Early Warning System (NEWS) by 2025,
• The National Drug Observatory (NDO) by 2026,

I am pleased to report that Albania has made significant progress in fulfilling these commitments. The National Early Warning System has been officially established within the Narcotics Investigation Directorate at the General Directorate of the State Police, facilitating real-time data collection and inter-agency coordination. Additionally, Albania has strengthened its collaboration with the European Union Drugs Agency and other international partners to share intelligence on emerging substances.

Similarly, the groundwork for the National Drug Observatory is well underway. A dedicated working group, comprising key stakeholders from the ministries of health, interior, and justice, as well as public health and research institutions, has been formed to define its mandate and operations. By 2026, the Observatory will provide a crucial foundation for evidence-based policymaking and effective demand and supply reduction strategies.

These initiatives align with Albania’s broader Strategy Against Organized and Serious Crimes 2021–2025 and the Rule of Law Roadmap, both of which aim to combat illicit drug trafficking, enhance regional and international cooperation, and harmonize our legal framework with European Union standards. More importantly, they contribute to a global approach that prioritizes prevention, early intervention, and community resilience.

Madam Chair,

Partnerships are at the core of these efforts. Albania is working closely with international organizations, including UNODC, the European Union Drugs Agency, and the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats. By sharing intelligence, best practices, and technical expertise, we can strengthen our collective response to the evolving drug problem.

The road ahead demands commitment, cooperation, and the courage to adapt to new challenges. We must bridge the gap between research and policy, enforcement and public health, and national action and global responsibility.

Albania stands ready to contribute, to strengthen partnerships, and to uphold the vision of a world where drug policies protect individuals, safeguard institutions, and promote sustainable development.

Thank you.