第68会期麻薬委員会（CND）テーマ別セッション：議題5：医療及び科学目的での国際規制物質の利用性におけるステートメント（菊地信之公使参事官）（英語）
令和7年10月2日
Madam Chair, Distinguished Delegates,
The international drug challenge is a matter of utmost urgency. It threatens not only the stability of our individual societies, but also the very fabric of international peace and prosperity. Among these threats, synthetic opioids—particularly fentanyl—have emerged as a rapidly evolving and highly dangerous global concern.
Japan recognizes this gravity and has worked closely with the UNODC and international partners to promote balanced and science-based responses to the problem. Effective countermeasures are not only essential to protect domestic societies, but also constitute our collective responsibility to uphold a healthier, more stable international community.
At the same time, we must remember that advanced medicine is a triumph of human knowledge and solidarity. Ensuring equitable access to essential controlled substances—such as fentanyl for palliative care—is not an option, but a moral obligation for all of humanity, including in low- and middle-income countries. The challenge lies in maintaining a delicate balance: safeguarding public health and security, while ensuring that those in need do not suffer unnecessarily due to inadequate access.
In Japan, fentanyl and other narcotics are strictly regulated through a licensing system that governs import, export, distribution, and use. The handling of precursor chemicals is also closely monitored through a mandatory reporting mechanism, including case-by-case notifications for international trade.
Despite its recognized medical value, fentanyl is prescribed in Japan with restraint, primarily for cancer-related pain. This cautious approach is partly shaped by societal concerns over opioid dependence. To address these perceptions and promote responsible medical use, Japan conducts public awareness campaigns and professional training for healthcare providers on the appropriate use of medical narcotics, including fentanyl.
Moreover, Japan has issued clear clinical guidelines for medical professionals—covering not only appropriate prescribing practices, but also detailed procedures for record-keeping and disposal. These initiatives are supported by close cooperation among government agencies, the pharmaceutical industry, and healthcare institutions.
We believe that no country is immune to the fentanyl crisis. Nor can this issue be met with isolationist approaches. What happens in one region will inevitably affect others. International cooperation is not only necessary—it is the only viable path forward.
Japan is prepared to share its experiences and insights with countries that seek to strengthen both their control systems and their capacity to ensure access to essential medicines. Together, we must strive for a world where public safety and compassionate care coexist in harmony. Thank you.
The international drug challenge is a matter of utmost urgency. It threatens not only the stability of our individual societies, but also the very fabric of international peace and prosperity. Among these threats, synthetic opioids—particularly fentanyl—have emerged as a rapidly evolving and highly dangerous global concern.
Japan recognizes this gravity and has worked closely with the UNODC and international partners to promote balanced and science-based responses to the problem. Effective countermeasures are not only essential to protect domestic societies, but also constitute our collective responsibility to uphold a healthier, more stable international community.
At the same time, we must remember that advanced medicine is a triumph of human knowledge and solidarity. Ensuring equitable access to essential controlled substances—such as fentanyl for palliative care—is not an option, but a moral obligation for all of humanity, including in low- and middle-income countries. The challenge lies in maintaining a delicate balance: safeguarding public health and security, while ensuring that those in need do not suffer unnecessarily due to inadequate access.
In Japan, fentanyl and other narcotics are strictly regulated through a licensing system that governs import, export, distribution, and use. The handling of precursor chemicals is also closely monitored through a mandatory reporting mechanism, including case-by-case notifications for international trade.
Despite its recognized medical value, fentanyl is prescribed in Japan with restraint, primarily for cancer-related pain. This cautious approach is partly shaped by societal concerns over opioid dependence. To address these perceptions and promote responsible medical use, Japan conducts public awareness campaigns and professional training for healthcare providers on the appropriate use of medical narcotics, including fentanyl.
Moreover, Japan has issued clear clinical guidelines for medical professionals—covering not only appropriate prescribing practices, but also detailed procedures for record-keeping and disposal. These initiatives are supported by close cooperation among government agencies, the pharmaceutical industry, and healthcare institutions.
We believe that no country is immune to the fentanyl crisis. Nor can this issue be met with isolationist approaches. What happens in one region will inevitably affect others. International cooperation is not only necessary—it is the only viable path forward.
Japan is prepared to share its experiences and insights with countries that seek to strengthen both their control systems and their capacity to ensure access to essential medicines. Together, we must strive for a world where public safety and compassionate care coexist in harmony. Thank you.