Stories from UNODC

Member States express strong support for "One-UN" approach of UNODC and other partners to transnational organized crime and drug trafficking

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 6:27:50 PM CET

UNODC Executive Director Yury Fedotov has briefed ambassadors in New York on the work of the United Nations task force on transnational organized crime and drug trafficking. Outlining the challenges faced by the task force, Mr. Fedotov said: "We face a complex and shifting criminal web whose strands touch almost every country and cross every region. In many of the world's regions, transnational organized crime and drug trafficking have evolved into major threats to stability, the rule of law, good governance and human rights."

UNODC to hold anti-corruption training for African civil society organizations

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 1:48:39 PM CET

As events in the Arab world have recently shown, corruption can undermine democratic institutions, slow economic development and contribute to instability. Civil society organizations can play a major role in fighting corruption, not only by acting as watchdogs for governments but also by supporting governments in providing services to all citizens in a transparent and democratic manner.

Economic crises may trigger rise in crime

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 1:20:35 PM CET

Crime may peak during economic crises, according to the UNODC report Monitoring the Impact of Economic Crisis on Crime. During periods of economic stress, the incidence of robbery may double, and homicide and motor vehicle theft also increase, the report says. Using data recorded by police in 15 countries on the incidence of robbery, homicide and car theft, the report focuses on the possible effects of economic stress, in particular during the global financial crisis of 2008-2009.

New UNODC forensic guidelines target "date rape" and similar criminal assaults

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:36:30 PM CET

Many people, especially young people, have fallen victim to criminal assault, including sexual assault, as a result of being drugged. In drug-facilitated crimes, victims are incapacitated or rendered unconscious by the effects of intoxicating drugs. There has been a significant increase in reports of drug-facilitated crime worldwide. Unfortunately, the nature and extent of the problem is not well established owing to a scarcity of accurate data.

New UNODC initiative works with youth to address substance abuse

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 3:13:22 PM CET

UNODC has launched an initiative for young people, particularly teenagers, to utilize social media to discuss and act against substance abuse. Through Facebook, young people from around the globe will connect to discuss, share, inspire and learn from each other ways of promoting a healthy lifestyle free from drugs.

Corruption: businesses have the power to effect positive change

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 2:55:01 PM CET

Yury Fedotov, Executive Director of UNODC, has invited business leaders to intensify public-private partnerships to curb corruption. Delivering a keynote address to chief executives attending the 2012 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Mr. Fedotov stressed the power of businesses to effect positive change. Corruption distorts markets, driving up costs for companies - and ultimately for consumers - whereas prosperous societies are good for business.

UNODC chief announces a comprehensive study on cybercrime

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 4:09:42 PM CET

UNODC Executive Director Yury Fedotov has announced that the Office has initiated a comprehensive study on cybercrime and the responses to it by Member States, the international community and the private sector. Speaking at the World Economic Forum, Mr. Fedotov announced that Member States would shortly receive a questionnaire from UNODC on cybercrime prevention, policy, legislation, international cooperation and technical assistance.

Children in the justice system need protection

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:44:17 AM CET

Millions of children all over the world suffer from violence. Studies reveal that children in the juvenile justice system, and in particular those deprived of their liberty, are especially vulnerable to violence. Experts met in Vienna to formulate and accelerate the adoption of effective measures to protect children within the juvenile justice system against all forms of violence.

UNODC supports Kyrgyz anti-drug agency in curbing drug trafficking and organized crime

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 3:58:48 PM CET

UNODC has boosted material, technical and logistical support for the State Drug Control Service of Kyrgyzstan (SSDC) as a first step towards strengthening the agency's capacity to counter trafficking in illicit drugs and precursors (the chemicals needed to manufacture drugs). The Office procured computers, specially equipped vehicles, counter-contraband team kits, GPS devices, first-aid kits and forensic manuals as part of a comprehensive package of assistance to the new agency.

Cricket star Shahid Afridi to hit hard against drugs in new role as UNODC Goodwill Ambassador

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 4:19:20 PM CET

Pakistan cricket star Shahid Afridi has been appointed UNODC National Goodwill Ambassador in recognition of his outstanding sporting record. "He plays with heart," said Jeremy Douglas, UNODC Representative in Pakistan, of the appointment. "Shahid Afridi is a role model who can speak powerfully against drug abuse. Young people see in him the courage to push away boundaries and the will to go on when things get tough."