The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has launched its new Regional Programme for South Asia (RPSA) for 2024-2028, reaffirming its commitment to enhance justice, health, peace, and the rule of law across the region. South Asia, home to over 1.6 billion people and more than 40% youth under 24, faces significant challenges including political instability, health crises, and vulnerabilities to climate change. These factors complicate the region’s progress toward sustainable development and security.
The RPSA, officially launched in New Delhi by senior government officials from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, consists of five sub-programmes aimed at mitigating critical issues: addressing the world drug problem, combating organized crime, preventing corruption and economic crime, countering terrorism, and enhancing criminal justice systems. At the launch, various officials emphasized the need for collective action to tackle these challenges, highlighting the role of the RPSA in fostering regional collaboration.
Key representatives from UNODC outlined the strategic focus of the new programme, underscoring its development based on extensive consultations and assessments. The framework aims to reinforce the rule of law and protect vulnerable communities affected by drugs, crime, and terrorism. It aligns with the broader UNODC corporate strategy and the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.
The RPSA is intended to provide a structured approach to cooperation among South Asian nations, thus enhancing their abilities to address shared security threats. The initiative signifies a commitment to unified action in the face of emerging challenges, highlighting the collaborative efforts essential for fostering peace and stability in the region.
