From 9 to 13 March 2026, the international drug policy community gathered in Vienna for the 69th Session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND). As the capital city for the Presidency of the Council of Europe’s International Co-operation Group on Drugs and Addictions (2026–2027), Vienna provided an important platform for the Group to continue its longstanding engagement with the CND and numerous member States. This role helped facilitate discussions and promoted comprehensive, evidence-based and human rights-centred approaches to drug policies.

During the session, the Council of Europe Group delivered a statement reaffirming its commitment to a balanced approach that safeguards public security, protects public health and promotes human rights.

As outlined in its 19th Ministerial Declaration and emphasised in its six priorities for 2026–2029, the Group called for stronger partnerships, greater solidarity and collective action as they share one mission. The focus was on achieving a balanced approach between demand and supply reduction, while safeguarding human rights, public safety and health security.

The Group also contributed to the dedicated section on Reports of Intergovernmental Organisations on drug control activities, keeping Commission members and observers appraised of key milestones implemented since the 67th CND Session held in March 2025.

SIDE EVENTS

As part of its engagement during the CND week, the Group organised a Side event (hybrid) “Balancing human rights considerations in public health and safety” (10 March 2026, 16:30–17:30).

The Group also supported/co-sponsored other Side events organised by its member States — Switzerland, Malta, Cyprus and Portugal — as well as by observer organisations and civil society partners. For the list of the events supported by the Pompidou Group, please see here.

The majority of the activities were accessible online and the full programme of the CND Side events was available on the official webpage of the CND Session.