Azerbaijan President Issues Decree on Implementation of New Drug Control Law

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree to implement recent amendments to the country's drug control legislation, aimed at enhancing the management of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and their precursors. The decree aligns with the new law dated June 28, 2024, No. 1197-VIQD, which introduces significant changes to the existing drug control framework.

The amendments, effective June 28, 2024, define the responsibilities and operational procedures for various agencies involved in drug control.

According to the amendments, the President is granted authority related to the destruction of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The decree specifies that the commissions responsible for the destruction of these substances include:

• A commission formed by the State Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and Illicit Drug Trafficking for large and especially large quantities.
• A similar commission established by the Cabinet of Ministers in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.
• District and city-level commissions for smaller quantities, formed by local executive authorities.

The decree clarifies the roles of various institutions involved in drug control, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Health, State Customs Committee, State Security Service, and State Border Service. It also includes provisions for relevant bodies in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

The President's decree marks a step forward in Azerbaijan’s efforts to strengthen drug control measures and ensure effective implementation of the new legislative framework. The changes are expected to streamline drug management processes and improve cooperation among various agencies involved in addressing drug-related issues.

Azerbaijan faces a severe and multifaceted drug addiction crisis, impacting both social and economic facets of the country. Experts suggest that the official figures on drug users are significantly underestimated, revealing a more profound issue than acknowledged by the government.

Doctors highlight that treatment for drug addiction, particularly heroin, demands long-term care and substantial financial resources—resources that are currently lacking. The main issue lies with the heroin supply chain originating in Afghanistan, which traverses Azerbaijan en route to Russia and other European nations. The weakening of border controls following the Soviet Union's collapse has exacerbated the drug problem, facilitating the flow of narcotics.

A shortage of facilities capable of providing adequate support to drug addicts further compounds the issue. Despite existing government programs aimed at tackling addiction, many individuals continue to receive inadequate treatment. Parliamentarians have noted a growing need for assistance, but available resources fall short of meeting the demand.

The Azerbaijani government is actively engaged in combating drug addiction, but progress remains unsatisfactory. Authorities acknowledge the necessity for a comprehensive approach that includes prevention and support for those affected by addiction. However, experts argue that current strategies are ineffective and call for a reevaluation of drug control policies to achieve tangible results.

In summary, drug addiction in Azerbaijan remains a pressing issue, demanding more robust intervention from both the state and society to address the crisis effectively.