The Justices United against Synthetics Trafficking (JUST) program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing the growing global problem of synthetic drug trafficking and its associated challenges. The program focuses on equipping judges and prosecutors in at-risk* countries with the knowledge, tools, and resources necessary to effectively adjudicate cases related to synthetic opioids trafficking.
This program will be initiated in 2024
JUST takes on a multidimensional approach encompassing legal, forensic, and educational aspects, including:
Capacity Building
- Develop a training programme based on the "Guideline for Adjudicating Cases of Synthetic Opioids Trafficking" to support judges and prosecutors in initiating, conducting, and successfully prosecuting cases related to synthetic opioids trafficking
- Tailor training sessions to the specific legal frameworks and challenges of the participating country
Enhancing Jurisprudence
- Address jurisprudential challenges and issues associated with achieving the standards of proof required for prosecution in synthetic drug cases
- Establish a resource centre providing legal guidance, case studies, and best practices for judges and prosecutors dealing with synthetic drug cases
- Facilitate cross-border information exchange and collaboration among justice professionals to enhance jurisprudence in this area
Forensic Expertise
- Provide guidance and resources to navigate difficulties associated with forensic evidence collection, handling, and analysis in synthetic drug cases
- Provide access to expert forensic support for complex cases
- Offer training on safe handling procedures for synthetic drugs
Academic Partnerships
- Partner with academic institutions to integrate the "Guideline for Adjudicating Cases of Synthetic Opioids Trafficking" into the curriculum for future judges and prosecutors
- Engage experts at partner universities as trainers
- Engage researchers at partner universities to develop country-specific guidelines and host workshops on knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration
International Cooperation: Countries collaborate more effectively on cross-border cases, strengthening efforts against transnational trafficking of synthetic drugs
Enhanced Jurisprudence: Improved understanding of jurisprudential aspects resulting in more consistent and informed legal decisions in synthetic drug cases across regions
Strengthened Legal Capacity: Judges and prosecutors in at-risk countries gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively prosecute synthetic drug cases
Effective Prosecutions: Increase in successful prosecution rates, serving as a deterrent to synthetic drug traffickers
Sustainable Legal Capacity: Integration of guidelines into legal education ensures a lasting impact on future judges and prosecutors
Current State Participants
New initiative
Asma Fakhri, Coordinator, UNODC Synthetic Drug Strategy asma [dot] fakhri [at] un [dot] org (asma[dot]fakhri[at]un[dot]org)
