-Linking 8 countries in the West and Central Asia
The UNODC Regional Programme for Afghanistan and Neighbouring Countries is UNODC's key mechanism to support the countries of West and Central Asia to develop regional and international joint responses to counter the harmful impact of illicit narcotics trafficking and transnational organized crime on security, governance and social and economic development. When launched in December 2011, it represented the first major initiative to focus on building cooperation between the countries in the immediate region neighbouring Afghanistan. In launching the programme, UNODC, in partnership the eight member countries recognised that the greatest impact on the illicit drugs, crime and security challenges in the region could be achieved through an integrated regional response alongside dedicated contributions of the international community based on principles of shared responsibility. Since its launch both member and donor countries have shown strong commitment, support and political will to work together to address the region's drug and crime challenges.
