“Human Rights are the foundation of peaceful societies and sustainable development.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights establishes the equality and dignity of every person. And it makes governments responsible for ensuring that people can enjoy their inalienable rights and freedoms.
Today we see disturbing hostility towards human rights in all regions. Let us stand against those negative forces. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is the most translated document in the world. Let us together make sure the words are translated into action. Let us stand up and speak out for human rights. They protect us all."
(Transcript of the Secretary-General's message of December 10th, 2017.)

“Ladies and gentlemen, I send my best wishes to the Commission on Narcotic Drugs. Current efforts have fallen short of the goal to eliminate the illicit drugs market. With the UN General Assembly Special Session consensus as our blueprint, we can promote efforts to stop organized crime while protecting human rights, enabling development and ensuring rights-based treatment and support.

I am particularly proud of the reforms I introduced in Portugal¹ when I was prime-minister, almost twenty years ago.

I have called on the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to develop a comprehensive strategy that works across the three pillars² with other UN entities to strengthen our efforts.

Together we have an opportunity to chart a better and balanced path for decades to come.”

Thank you.

¹ Portugal's November 29, 2000 law on drugs and psychotropic substances, Lei 30/2000, in Portuguese.
² The three UN pillars: Human Rights, Peace and Security, and Development; some speak of four pillars and include the Rule of Law.