Bishkek (TDI): Member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) have agreed on recommendations to strengthen regional cooperation against illicit drug trafficking, the spread of synthetic drugs and the growing use of digital technologies in drug-related crimes.
The recommendations were adopted at the international conference “For a Drug-Free World,” held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on October 13–14, 2026. The event was organized by Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs in cooperation with the SCO Secretariat.
Representatives of law enforcement and other relevant authorities from SCO member states attended the conference alongside officials from the SCO Secretariat, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), the Central Asian Regional Information and Coordination Centre (CARICC) and other regional organizations.
Government agencies, higher education institutions and civil society representatives from Kyrgyzstan also participated in the discussions.
The conference opened with a welcoming address by Kyrgyz Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Police Major General Adylbek Biybosunov.
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During the two-day meeting, participants examined the challenges posed by transnational drug trafficking, the spread of synthetic drugs and new psychoactive substances, and the use of digital technologies in drug-related criminal activity.
The discussions also addressed approaches to preventing drug use and improving treatment and rehabilitation services for people experiencing drug dependence.
The agenda reflected the range of issues confronting authorities across the region, from cross-border trafficking networks to emerging substances and criminal activities facilitated by digital platforms.
Participants discussed the importance of closer coordination among law enforcement agencies and relevant institutions to improve responses to these threats.
The recommendations adopted at the conclusion of the conference call for stronger interaction among competent authorities in SCO member states and improvements in the exchange of operational information.
Participants also recommended developing early warning mechanisms to identify emerging drug-related threats, conducting joint anti-drug activities and improving the effectiveness of preventive initiatives.
Such cooperation is intended to help participating countries share information more effectively and respond to developments that may cross national borders.
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The recommendations also place prevention alongside law enforcement, treatment and rehabilitation, recognizing that responses to drug-related challenges extend beyond disrupting trafficking networks.
The conference statement did not specify a binding implementation timetable, funding commitments or a monitoring mechanism for the recommendations.
