The VNGOC board is happy to announce that the VNGOC annual report for 2020 has now been published.
2020 was a year of challenges, hardship and tragedy for so many. But the pandemic has also further emphasised civil society’s crucial role in protecting physical and mental health, addressing the world drug situation, holding those in power accountable, and reaching those in need.
As this report shows, it has been another busy and productive year for the VNGOC. Around 400 NGO representatives joined us at the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) in March 2020, amidst growing concern about COVID-19 but just before lockdown measures swept across Europe. (Indeed, had the CND meeting been scheduled just one week later, it probably would not have taken place). It was a subdued session, but once again the presence and voice of civil society was strong, professional, constructive and coordinated. We have made ourselves an indispensable part of these UN debates, and we must remain so.
Looking forward, the VNGOC continues to work closely with other NGO committees to protect civil society spaces. It is our strong belief that the level and quality of engagement opportunities must be at least the same as before COVID-19. In fact, the pandemic and its aftermath should be opportunities to expand access even further – in the spirit of ‘building back better’.
We hope you enjoy this report!
