The international debate surrounding the issues related to the production, trafficking and use of illegal drugs has always been politically sensitive. The United Nations oversees a global system of control over substances - such as Heroin, Cocaine and Cannabis - that prohibits their cultivation, distribution and use. This system has been in place for almost a century, but the level of illegal drug use in many parts of the world continues to rise. As an increasing number of countries and local authorities implement policies that to some extent acknowledge and tolerate drug use amongst their citizens, the global consensus in support of tough drug policies is being questioned, and the level of disagreement on the direction and content of drug policies is increasing within and between countries.

Policymakers are therefore often torn between their responsibility to maintain their commitment to the spirit of the United Nations Conventions on Drugs (signed and ratified by almost all member states over the last four decades), and the experience and practice on the ground in their own country. Furthermore, as the scale and diversity of drug markets and drug problems have become more complex, so have the numerous policy options. In this context, it is sometimes understandable that politicians and diplomats struggle to find a coherent policy in this important area of international relations. It is important, therefore, that the experience from practitioners and researchers in this field - that provides the evidence on which policy should be based - is collated and presented to policymakers in a way that positively supports them in making difficult decisions.

The International Drug Policy Consortium is a global network of national and international NGOs that specialise in issues related to illegal and legal drug use. We aim to promote objective and open debate on the effectiveness, direction and content of drug policies at national and international level, and support evidence-based policies that are effective in reducing drug-related harm. Based on the findings of its members' research and written work, the Consortium engages with officials and politicians in national governments and international agencies - through correspondence, face-to-face meetings and involvement in conferences and seminars - to promote effective policies, thereby making the most up-to-date research and practice knowledge available to decision makers.