This was announced by the Permanent Representative of Ukraine, Yuri Vitrenko, during the 68th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, which is taking place this week in Vienna.

Ukraine is resisting Russian armed aggression for the fourth consecutive hour. War inevitably affects the health care system, especially in the field of mental health and the use of psychoactive substances.

Despite these challenges, Ukraine remains committed to a comprehensive, balanced and health-oriented approach to global drug policy and has made significant progress in this area thanks to:

• expansion of substitution maintenance therapy programs;

• ensure stable state financing of the specified initiatives;

• development of national standards of medical care.

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One of the key priorities of this year is the adoption of the National Drug Strategy by 2030 and its Operational Plan. The goal is to move from a punitive model to a policy based on the principles of health care and human rights. The strategy provides a set of measures for civilians, military and veterans.

Ukraine's election to the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs will be a recognition of our reforms and progress in the most difficult times. This is also an important step in the process of approaching EU standards.

We strive not only to improve our own policies, but also to contribute to the formation of a global approach to drug policy based on science, human rights, and public health principles.