6 March 2013 - People may not always realize just how connected the work of the United Nations is with their everyday lives. In an effort to demonstrate the concrete impact of the work of the Vienna-based United Nations organizations, the UN Information Service recently launched the interactive publication "
The United Nations in Vienna in your Daily Life". The publication showcases examples of the impact of UNODC's work on the lives of people across the globe, and this story highlights a small selection of these.
Your health…
Illegal drugs are easily addictive and so harmful to your health that countries have decided to control them. Countries have passed several international laws that specify which drugs are controlled, as well as policies to treat addiction to illicit drugs and to provide appropriate help for addicts. UNODC works with Governments to implement these controls and policies, and supports several awareness-raising efforts to prevent illicit drug use and promote healthy lifestyles through its World Drug Campaign. UNODC also encourages countries to tackle drug use as a chronic illness, such as cancer or heart disease - focusing on health means helping countries' public health systems in providing treatment services that reach all people in need of these.
Your community…
Every year, countless lives are lost as a result of organized crime. Drug-related health problems, violence and firearm deaths are all part of this. While transnational organized crime is a global threat, its effects are felt locally. When organized crime takes root it can destabilize countries and entire regions. Crime groups work with local criminals, leading to an increase in corruption, extortion and racketeering, and violent gangs can also turn inner cities into dangerous areas and put citizens' lives at risk. UNODC works with countries to harmonize action at the international level in identifying, investigating and prosecuting the people and groups behind these crimes. UNODC also raises awareness of this issue through its campaign on Transnational Organized Crime.
Your business…
Corruption is a massive drain on public resources and affects our lives in many ways. Public sector projects, for instance, can cost taxpayers far more than they should if tender kickbacks become part of the process. Bank customers can lose their life savings through corruption and shareholders can be robbed of their investments. While corruption used to be seen as a white collar crime, the perception is changing as more and more people realize how much this affects their daily lives. As the guardian of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, UNODC helps Governments across the world create a culture of transparency and integrity in public institutions and the private sector. UNODC provides advice and training, and sets standards to help promote the rule of law and empower societies against this scourge. On 9 December, UNODC promotes the International Anti-Corruption Day, along with the UN Development Programme, encouraging individual action to say "no" to this crime.