The Global Coalition for Alternatives to the Drug War!

Dear drug policy reformer, The United Nations Special Session of the General Assembly on Drugs, which takes place from June 8th to June 10th 1998 in New York, was originally conceived as a critical examination of worldwide anti-drug policy. However, under the guidance of repressive forces inside and outside the UN, the focus of this session has been narrowed. According to the new guidelines, only the expansion of existing policies will be open for discussion. The United Nations aims to escalate current drug repression tactics in a misguided quest towards a 'drug free' society. In terms of crime, economic and financial damage, and social and personal harm, this policy is turning into a worldwide crisis. The organisations listed below consider it of great importance that alternative proposals are heard during this session. They intend to make a clear statement that what is needed is not escalated repression, but reform policies aimed at reducing the damage currently done. To this aim, these organisations have recently united to form the Global Coalition for Alternatives to the Drug War. You will find their declaration with this letter. Organisations can join the coalition by signing the declaration; see the contact information below. Many member organisations of this coalition will participate in the 1998 Global Days against the Drug War, which are held Friday June 5th through Wednesday June 10th, in over 55 cities in 16 countries. This great international event will feature discussion forums, demonstrations, press conferences, street parties, seminars, concerts, a congress, exhibitions, petitions, and other types of events. Note however that participation in the coalition does not itself imply endorsement of these events. Your organisation can help make the Global Coalition against the Drug War a success. Please join the coalition, co-sign the declaration with us, and, if possible, participate in the 1998 Global Days against the Drug War, and in the efforts to promote drug law reform that the coalition will initiate in the coming years. With best regards, The Global Coalition for Alternatives to the Drug War. To join the coalition see http://www.stopthedrugwar.org/globalcoalition/ or send e-mail to [email protected]