Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs

The Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961 is a landmark international treaty that consolidated previous international drug control agreements into a single, comprehensive regime. Its primary aim was to prevent drug trafficking and drug abuse by establishing international controls on narcotic drugs.1

Key aspects of the convention include:
* Codification of Controls: It brought together various drug-control measures into one unified system.1
* Limitation of Use: The convention stipulated that the use of cannabis leaves for purposes other than medical and scientific should be discontinued as soon as possible, with a target of within twenty-five years. It also limited the use of coca leaves to medical and scientific needs.21
* Foundation for National Laws: The treaty provided a basis for national legislation, such as the U.S. Controlled Substances Act of 1970, which established a five-schedule system to classify drugs based on their abuse potential and medical applications.34
* International Narcotics Control Board: The convention paved the way for the establishment of the International Narcotics Control Board, which oversees the implementation of these drug control measures.1

The convention came into force in 1964.1