Member States in the Commission on Narcotic Drugs are tasked with answering a fundamental question: “What would my country do?” Without a specific ruling or law on a substance, representatives must construct a credible national position by examining their country’s past behavior, including votes, public statements and international alliances.

This process of extrapolation requires representatives to first understand their nation’s core principles. Representative Eme Boerema of the United Kingdom said, “A nation’s past often hints at its future direction. Its history shapes how delegates form their approach.” A Member State’s actions are not arbitrary; they are directly informed by its values and historical experiences. Consequently, a Member State grappling with cartel-related violence will naturally advocate for different solutions than one with a long-standing policy of medical marijuana access.

This historical context is framed by the global drug control system established under the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. Member States with a history of supporting restrictive policies tend to focus on reducing supply, while those with a background in health-based methods typically advocate for harm minimization. This foundational difference was articulated by Representative Omar Timoumi of Thailand, who emphasized his delegation’s focus on reducing the direct harm that narcotics pose. This contrasts with the position of Representative Sam Hirsch of Switzerland who focuses on mental health advocacy and combating transnational groups.

 Representatives that have the skills to leverage their Member State’s past are able to construct positions that resonate with authenticity. Representative Hirsch said, “We find it to be much more productive for all of us to collaborate rather than get bogged down in procedure,” noting a shift from debate to collaborative action.  

This process transforms historical insight into effective diplomacy, advancing the collective global effort to address narcotics. By faithfully representing their Member State’s stance, representatives ensure that the final outcomes are not only passable resolutions but credible and long term solutions.