Observed annually since June 26, 1989, the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is an international day created by the United Nations to commemorate the dismantling of the opium trade in Humen, Guangdong, in June of 1839. The day is also used to focus on the problems of drug abuse and illicit trafficking around the world. It’s a holiday observed not only by anti-drug organizations all over the world but also by communities and individuals.

The History of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

During the International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held in Vienna, Austria, from June 17th through 26th, 1987, the “Declaration of the International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking” and the “Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Outline of Future Activities in Drug Abuse Control” were adopted. The date of their adoption was June 26, 1987. It has been observed as a holiday ever since.

Facts About Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking

We’ve assembled quite a few facts about drug abuse and the illicit drug trade that we’d like everyone to be made aware of while they’re observing the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

• The average age at which many children begin experimenting with drugs is 13 years old.
• Over 50% of all suicides and violent crimes are caused by drugs and/or alcohol.
• Approximately 80% of all domestic violence reports are related to drugs and alcohol.
• Approximately 28% of college dropouts are due to the abuse of alcohol.
• More than $600 billion is lost due to substance abuse every single year.
• Approximately 30 out of 31 alcoholics have never received treatment for their addiction.
• It has been estimated that up to 60% of poor work performances can be attributed to drugs and/or alcohol.
• Alcohol is one of the most commonly used drugs in the U.S.
• More than 40 million Americans are struggling with substance abuse.
• About 48% of all drug traffickers have had little or no criminal history before trafficking.
• In 2015, the majority of drug traffickers were male.
• The average age of drug traffickers at sentencing was 35 years of age.
• The approximate worth of the world drug industry is $360 billion.
• In 2013, 22.7% of high school seniors used marijuana, and 16.3% smoked cigarettes.
• The U.S. only represents 5% of the world’s population but accounts for over 75% of the prescription drugs taken.
• By the 8th grade, 15% of students have smoked cigarettes, 16% had smoked marijuana, and 28% have consumed alcohol in the U.S.

Observing International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

On this day, the United Nations uses its Office on Drugs & Crime to launch campaigns designed to increase support for drug control throughout the world. The UN often partners with other organizations to achieve this goal. This holiday is also observed on the national level in many countries, including Vietnam and Thailand, for promotional events and rallies. People all over the world also observe this holiday to publicize the dangers of drug abuse associated with illicit drugs.