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History

The Vienna Non-Governmental Organization Committee (VNGOC) provides a vital link between NGO's, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND).  Initially created in 1983, the objective of the Committee is to support the work of the UNODC, provide information on NGO activities and involve a wide sector of civil society in raising awareness of global drug policies. 

VNGOC has a rich history in facilitating important events and relationships between NGO's and the UN system. Focusing primarily on the value added contributions of NGO's, the Committee welcomes a diverse range of ideological representation.

The key activities of the VNGOC include:

  • Promoting the diversity and contributions of NGO's within the UN drug control system
  • Hosting an annual NGO Forum in conjunction with the CND
  • Providing an annual statement to the CND
  • Providing a means through which UNODC-approved NGO's can participate at the CND
  • Supporting NGO's in their relationships with UNODC
  • Hosting extraordinary NGO events such as the 4th International Forum - "Beyond 2008" - on the 1998-2008 UNGASS on illicit drugs.
  • Providing orientation briefings for NGO's attending the CND
  • Encouraging the inclusion of NGO's on national delegations attending CND
  • Acting as the primary interface between NGOs and the UNODC civil society officer.

The VNGOC is composed of members representing international, national and local NGOs. Many of these organizations have ECOSOC approved consultative status which also defines their respective roles during UN events such as the CND. Membership on the Committee is completed through application to the Secretary (info@vngoc.org). The Committee has an Executive which is composed of a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, Deputy Treasurer, Secretary and Deputy Secretary.  The terms of office for these positions are two years and any member of the committee is eligible to run for office.

The VNGOC represents an essential and important mechanism for NGOs to substantively contribute to global drug policy.