Youth information sessions on the CND expert panel reviewing the global drug control system
Two online sessions — Registration required
- Monday 19 October 2026, 18:00 CEST (Paris/Berlin) — Register for the session on 19 October
- Tuesday 20 October 2026, 14:00 CEST (Paris/Berlin) — Register for the session on 20 October
A panel of 19 independent experts established by the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) is reviewing the international drug control system, presenting an important opportunity for young people affected by drug policies to contribute their perspectives and priorities to the global debate.
To support meaningful youth participation in this process, Youth RISE, SSDP US, SSDP International, Paradigma and Hayat are organising two free, interactive information sessions for young advocates, students, young people who use drugs and others affected by punitive drug policies.
The sessions will explain the significance of the expert panel's review, explore key issues that young people may wish to raise, and provide practical guidance on preparing a compelling written submission of up to 1,500 words.
The two sessions will cover the same content, offering participants in different time zones an opportunity to take part. Simultaneous interpretation from English into Spanish will be available.
- Session 1 – Monday 19 October 2026
09:00 PT / 10:00 Mexico City / 11:00 Bogotá / 12:00 ET / 17:00 London / 18:00 Paris / 21:30 New Delhi
Register for session 1 - Session 2 – Tuesday 20 October 2026
05:00 PT / 06:00 Mexico City / 07:00 Bogotá / 08:00 ET / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 17:30 New Delhi
Register for session 2
The UN expert panel is accepting written contributions from stakeholders until 15 November 2026.
These sessions are intended for young people already engaged in drug policy reform and harm reduction movements. The organisers request that the invitation be shared within these networks rather than promoted publicly on social media.