PRESS RELEASE: The Members of the Global Commission on Drug Policy Mourn the Death of Paul Volcker

(Geneva, 10 December 2019)

The members of the Global Commission on Drug Policy have learned, with deep sadness, of the passing on Sunday 8 December of their esteemed colleague Paul Volcker, former chairman of the Federal Reserve.

Paul Volcker believed profoundly in the right of every person to the same rights and dignity, and was very vocal about the need to end the prohibition of drugs.

Ruth Dreifuss, Chairwoman of the Global Commission and former President of Switzerland said: “Paul Volcker was a unique voice within the Global Commission on Drug Policy, the voice of a financial expert who saw the damages that current drug policies cause, undermining the cohesion of our societies, and who called on governments to address them seriously. We were honored to count him as one of us, and hope to continue to honor his memory through the Global Commission’s collective work, of which he was an important part.”

His recent memoir published 30 October 2018 shows his continued concern for the rule of law and proper governance. The members of the Global Commission on Drug Policy join millions in honoring his memory, and express their deep condolences to his family for this great loss.

ENDS