At the BRICS Heads of Anti-Drug Agencies Meeting in Guwahati (Assam), member nations adopted the Guwahati Declaration (2026) to intensify cooperation against illicit drug trafficking and transnational organised crime. This topic is important for aspirants preparing for GS2 International Relations and drug control diplomacy through upsc coaching in Hyderabad.
About the Declaration
• Adoption: Under India’s BRICS chairship (2026), themed “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”
Key Calls
- Information exchange and intelligence sharing.
- Use of digital tools and data-driven approaches for enforcement.
- Best practice sharing among agencies.
- Reducing drug demand, promoting healthy lifestyles, and protecting youth and vulnerable groups.
Participants
• BRICS Members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa.
• Expanded Members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Indonesia.
• Partner Countries: Belarus, Nigeria, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, etc.
BRICS Overview
• Origin: Coined as BRIC (2001) by economist Jim O’Neill; South Africa joined in 2010 → BRICS.
• Expansion: 2024–25 added new members.
• Global Share: Represents 49.5% of world population, ~40% of global GDP, and ~26% of global trade.
• Role: Emerging economy bloc with growing geopolitical influence.
Significance for India
• Strengthens India’s leadership in global drug control diplomacy.
• Supports domestic initiatives like NCB’s Vision Document 2026–29 and NDPS Act reforms.
• Enhances regional security cooperation, especially against trafficking routes in South Asia.
Conclusion
The Guwahati Declaration highlights BRICS’ resolve to fight drug trafficking collectively, reinforcing India’s role in shaping global security and cooperative governance.
