South Asia Newsletter: Odyssey (March-April 2020)

UNODC and Responding to COVID-19

New Delhi/01 May 2020: Presenting the latest edition of Odyssey--our news bulletin showcasing the recent work we have been doing to promote security, justice and health in South Asia.

This edition focuses on COVID-19 Responses and UNODC. Health emergencies like COVID-19 threaten to cost many lives and pose additional risks to the global economy, social dynamics, human rights, and overall security and stability of nations. UNODC believes that the crisis cannot be overcome until the pandemic is addressed in all pockets of vulnerability, in line with the UN's principle of 'Leaving No One Behind' and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),

Our focus is also on the evolving implications of Covid-19, especially pertaining to human rights, health, peace, security and the rule of law. UNODC remains committed to delivering vital evidence-based and gender-responsive technical assistance to those in need, especially the marginalized, vulnerable and disadvantaged groups. These include people who use drugs and with drug use disorders, who are in prison and who have HIV/Hepatitis C.

In this context, this edition features a range of impactful initiatives spearheaded by UNODC in response to COVID-19, such as:

  • Developing evidence-based Policy Documents and Resources on COVID-19 and its impact on organised crime, security, the rule of law and vulnerable groups
  • The Lockdown Learners Series, aimed at promoting youth awareness and action on COVID-19, SDGs, vulnerable groups and emerging risks through education
  • Supporting Governments towards addressing the pandemic
  • Highlighting emerging concerns with regard to gender-based violence, cybercrime and online safety, human trafficking, corruption, law enforcement, drugs and health, HIV/AIDS and Hep-C, prisons, children, youth and families, and wildlife crime, among others.

Catch the latest updates on some of our key programs and activities here: Odyssey (March-April 2020) 

We look forward to feedback and comments, and continued support of our partners, stakeholders and well-wishers.

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