Our active participation in the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) has been fundamental to promote more effective and humane policies in crime prevention and criminal justice. Since 2016, we have been committed to this process, connecting issues such as the recruitment of children by armed groups with drug policies and peacebuilding. During our interventions at CCPCJ sessions, we consistently advocate for evidence-based and human rights-based approaches, seeking to influence key decisions to improve policies and practices in these critical areas.

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In 2023 , we will organize a side event during the CCPCJ session focused on the decriminalization of certain drug-related behaviors. At this event, we highlight the benefits of decriminalization in terms of harm reduction and the promotion of social inclusion. We argue that punitive approaches are not only ineffective, but also contribute to the stigmatization and marginalization of people who use drugs, perpetuating cycles of exclusion and criminalization. Our event detonated significant debate and helped raise awareness among participants about the importance of considering more humane and human rights-based approaches to drug and criminal justice policy.

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In 2024 , we continue our commitment to the CCPCJ by organizing an event on the recruitment of children by armed groups in contexts related to drug trafficking and associated violence. This event highlighted the need to address the underlying causes of child recruitment, such as social and economic exclusion, and lack of educational opportunities. We argue that drug policies must consider these factors to prevent recruitment and protect vulnerable children and adolescents. Our event provided an important platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences, and to promote more comprehensive and effective policies in crime prevention and criminal justice.

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In summary, our participation in the CCPCJ has been consistent and aimed at promoting more inclusive and evidence-based approaches to drug and criminal justice policy. We will continue to collaborate with this important platform to contribute to a constructive and progressive dialogue on the future of these policies at the international level.