Press Release

(Washington, D.C.)—The United States is pleased with the re-election of former U.S. Ambassador Melvyn Levitsky to the United Nations' International Narcotics Control Board (INCB). The INCB is the independent mechanism responsible for monitoring and promoting the high standards of drug control as determined by international law. Ambassador Levitsky was first elected to the INCB in 2003, during a special election to fill a vacancy on the 13-member body. His term will now run for an additional five years. Ambassador Levitsky will serve in this expert capacity as a private citizen.

John Walters, Director of National Drug Control Policy stated, "Over the past three years, Ambassador Levitsky has worked hard to promote the high standards of the United Nations. He understands that dangerous, addictive drugs pose a serious threat to democracies across the globe. We look forward to his continued leadership and his efforts to bring the international community together to develop sound, effective solutions to our shared international drug problem."

Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Anne W. Patterson said, "Ambassador Levitsky is an outstanding choice for the Board. His extensive State Department experience and life-long academic pursuits have provided him with a deep understanding of how to pursue effective ways to combat the international drug problem. We look forward to working with our international partners and Ambassador Levitsky as we make more progress toward reducing both the demand and supply of drugs around the world."

U.S. international narcotics control policy supports the development of effective international law enforcement institutions and alternative livelihood models to inhibit the production, trafficking, and consumption of illicit drugs worldwide. These programs directly support the high standards set forth in the UN's three drug control conventions, and include the provision of equipment and training for foreign law enforcement, drug demand reduction initiatives, and alternative development assistance.