Article 33: Drug misuse

Convention text

The countries that have signed the Convention must take all necessary measures to protect children from the illegal use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, as set out in international agreements. They must also make sure that children are not used in the illegal production and trafficking of drugs.

Key point

Children must be protected from the illegal use of drugs, drug misuse, drug production and drug trafficking.

Explanation

Drugs are substances that can be addictive, meaning that after some time a person may find it hard to live without them. Drugs contain substances that affect how the brain works, and therefore also affect behaviour and awareness. These are called psychotropic or psychoactive substances. Children have the right to protection from these substances. For children, this also includes alcohol and tobacco (nicotine). Alcohol is not illegal for adults, but it is not allowed for children. Tobacco and smoking products must also not be sold to children.

Children can become addicted to drugs more quickly than adults and can also suffer alcohol poisoning more quickly. Drugs can be harmful to brains that are still developing. The more drugs are used, the greater the risk of harmful effects. If you are under 18, you may not buy or drink alcohol. It is also illegal to sell alcohol to children. Even so, many people under 18 have tried alcohol, and some drink it regularly.

The government must give children good information about the risks of drug use, including tobacco and alcohol. Children who are addicted to drugs must receive medical care. The government must also take measures to make sure that children are not used to produce or traffic drugs.

What are tobacco and smoking products?

Tobacco comes from a plant and is found in many products, such as cigars, cigarettes, vapes (e-cigarettes), nicotine pouches and snus (chewing tobacco). These products must not be sold to anyone under the age of 18. The same applies to products without tobacco but with nicotine, such as nicotine sticks and steam stones (for use in a water pipe).