In this file photo dated June 4, 2019, A Sinaloa's state police officer works during the dismantle of one of the three clandestine laboratories producers of synthetic drug in El Dorado, Sinaloa state, Mexico. (PHOTO / AFP)

UNITED NATIONS - The UN General Assembly on Monday adopted a resolution calling for action to address the global public health and security challenges posed by synthetic drugs.

The resolution calls on UN member states, consistent with the principle of common and shared responsibility, to carry out coordinated actions at the national, regional and international levels to address, in accordance with domestic law and circumstances, the global public health and security challenges posed by the illicit manufacture and trafficking of synthetic drugs, as well as their distribution, consumption and use for non-medical and non-scientific purposes.

It also encourages member states to explore innovative and forward-looking approaches to more effectively address the threats posed by synthetic drugs, by involving all relevant sectors, building the capacity of law enforcement and health care systems to respond to those threats, broadening domestic, regional and international controls over synthetic drugs, and voluntarily establishing and strengthening partnerships or cooperation with civil society, academia, and private sector entities, as well as addressing drug-related socio-economic factors.

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The resolution urges member states to develop and carry out comprehensive, balanced, scientific evidence-based and forward-looking strategies at all applicable levels to effectively address and counter challenges posed by synthetic drugs.