CARICC took part in a side event organized by the Kyrgyz Republic during the 69th Session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs

CARICC delegation led by Director M. Khamidov participated in a side event titled “Development of Early Warning Systems (EWS) for New Synthetic Drugs and New Psychoactive Substances (NPS)” organized by the Kyrgyz Republic during the 69th Session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs on 12 March 2026 in Vienna.

The event was attended by representatives of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the European Union, delegations from Central Asian countries and the Russian Federation, and experts from related international and national organizations.

During it the Kyrgyz delegation delivered a presentation on development of a national early warning system for new synthetic drugs and new psychoactive substances. Information was provided in detail on mechanisms for collecting and analyzing information, conducting risk assessments, and procedures for preparing and distributing alerts. It was highlighted that various international information platforms and data-sharing tools are utilized in this work.

Representative of the Russian Federation briefed on measures being implemented to develop similar mechanisms for monitoring and analyzing new psychoactive substances, expressing support for the initiative of the Kyrgyz Republic.

In his statement CARICC Director emphasized the importance of setting up and developing early warning systems as an effective tool for timely identification of new threats related to trafficking of synthetic drugs. He also pointed out that the Centre, in collaboration with UNODC, is implementing an initiative to introduce an early warning system in Central Asian countries aimed at strengthening regional mechanisms for monitoring, analyzing, and rapidly exchanging information on new drug threats.

At the conclusion of the event participants underscored the need to further develop international and regional cooperation, exchange best practices, and expand collaboration in order to enhance effectiveness of responses to new challenges related to distribution of synthetic drugs and new psychoactive substances.