This is a critical time in Canada for the development of a comprehensive drug policy based in science, public health and human rights. It is also an important moment in International drug policy. The CAHR session will consider the outcomes of the UN General Assemble Special Session (UNGASS) on Drugs that will have just taken place in New York April 19 – 21, 2016. The UNGASS will set in motion a process to review the global response to drugs over the next three years 2016 - 2019.

This process will culminate in 2019 when UN Member States come together to agree on the focus for the global response to drugs over the decade 2019 - 2029. With a new federal government that is interested in innovation and new approaches to drugs there is an opportunity to accelerate the development of a comprehensive health and human rights response to drugs in Canada and to provide much needed leadership in the upcoming global discussions that may lead to a new approach to drugs within the UN system.  

The session will explore:

1. Canada's role in reforming the international drug control system.

2. Building a comprehensive health and human rights approach with a focus on decriminalization and regulation of drugs. 

Objectives:

1. Learn about the outcomes of the UNGASS meeting that takes place April 19 – 21, 2016.

2. Explore two components of a public health and human rights approach to drugs – decriminalization and regulation of drugs.