Remarks by Pino Arlacchi
Under-Secretary-General
Executive Director
to the
closing meeting of the
Forty-fourth session of the
Commission on Narcotic Drugs
Vienna
29 March
Mr. Chairman, Distinguished Delegates,
You have had a very productive session. I will take the liberty of offering a few comments.
First of all, the formula you developed for the organization of the Commissions work has worked well in several respects.
The idea of inviting expert panelists to participate in a debate on substantive issues turns out to have been a good one. The debate was interesting, dynamic and informative.
Your discussion on the follow-up to the Special Session was also productive. I think we have together come up with a successful monitoring mechanism, and I thank you for your suggestions on how we can improve it.
There was also a useful discussion on the need for a balance between measures to reduce supply and those targeting demand. In this connection, the Commission reconfirmed the consensus around the concept of shared responsibility on a global basis.
Against this background, the debates on the agenda items dealing with supply reduction and with demand reduction were constructive and informative.
The report of the INCB and its discussion by the Commission underlined the positive nature of the collaboration between the two bodies. I take this opportunity to thank the Board for the spirit it brings to the relationship with UNDCP as well.
Through the use of an Operational Segment, the Commission successfully structured its work as governing body of the Fund of UNDCP. I was very pleased, for example, to receive clear guidance on your wishes for informal consultations involving both donors and recipients.
You underlined the need for more geographical and thematic balance in UNDCP activities. I welcome this, in particular the emphasis placed on greater attention to Africa and to demand reduction measures.
The set of resolutions adopted by the Commission covered an impressive variety of subjects. This reflects consensus on a broad range of policy matters.
The Commission showed its own sense of responsibility by agreeing that it could reduce the duration of some of its future sessions. The financial savings are significant when all factors are taken into account considerably larger than the figure quoted as official financial implications. The Secretariat will make every effort to help the Commission use its time as efficiently as possible.
The inter-sessional meetings were recognized as a useful tool for improving the efficiency of the Commission. They have also demonstrated their value as a means of enhancing communication between the Commission and the Programme.
Lastly, I reiterate my commitment to continue implementing measures that will strengthen the quality of UNDCPs performance. These include changes in our methods of work. I also confirm that we will move to results-based budgeting, in line with your advice.
Mr. Chairman, I thank you and the bureau for your efficient work and for the spirit of friendship that has characterized our relationship. I would also like to thank the staff of UNDCP and of UNOV for their hard work in preparing the meeting and ensuring its smooth operation.
I wish all of you a safe return to your homes.