The Global Commission on Drug Policy Mourns the Loss of Kofi Annan

(Geneva, 18 August 2018)

It is with deep sadness and a tremendous sense of loss that the members of the Global Commission on Drug Policy have learned of the passing of their esteemed colleague Kofi Annan on Saturday, 18 August 2018.                       

A former Secretary-General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Commissioner Annan worked tirelessly for peace throughout his life, and addressed the many challenges confronting the world with wisdom and pragmatism. He initiated the move towards eradicating extreme poverty with the Millennium Development Goals and contributed considerably to the global response to HIV.

Mr Annan convened the West Africa Commission on Drugs and remained a dedicated member of the Global Commission on Drug Policy. He was an ardent advocate for a more humane approach to drug control, stating: “I believe that drugs have destroyed many lives, but wrong government policies have destroyed many more.” In his work with the Commission, he displayed the same commitment to protect the dignity, health and human rights of all.

Mr Annan will be forever remembered for his contribution to global peace and his profound love and dedication to humanity. The members of the Global Commission on Drug Policy join millions around the world in honoring his memory, and express their deep condolences to his family for this great loss.

ENDS

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Eric Grant
Communications Officer
+41 79 124 1523
eric.grant@globalcommissionondrugs.org