United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) released the report on World Drug Day (or International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking). 

• Since 1987 the UN observes World Drug Day on June 26th to increase action in achieving a drug-free world.

Key highlights of the report 

• Rise in drug abuse: In the decade to 2022, the number of people using illicit drugs increased to 292 million. 
• Most abused drugs: Cannabis followed by opioids, amphetamines, cocaine, and ecstasy. 
• Most affected regions:Criminal activity and trafficking are common in remote regions with multiple borders and limited governance such as:
  • Triple Frontier area (Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay) and Golden Triangle (Laos Myanmar and Thailand).
• Cannabis legalisation: Cannabis was legalised across Canada, Uruguay, and 27 jurisdictions in the US. 
  • THC (delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is believed to be the main ingredient behind the psychoactive effect of the drug.
• Environmental fallout: Illegal drug-related activities contribute to deforestation, toxic waste dumping, and chemical contamination.