Highland MP Paul Monaghan will speak at the United Nations next week at a general assembly special session on the world drug problem.
He was invited to contribute to the meeting in New York by the International Harm Reduction Association after chairing a debate at the UK Parliament.
The discussion was jointly sponsored by three all-party parliamentary groups – on human rights, drug policy reform and HIV and Aids.
Held in January, it aimed to highlight human rights abuses and the health consequences of drug misuse.
Mr Monaghan, who represents Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, said the session would be a chance to highlight the work taking place in Scotland.
He added: “The United Nations Special Session (UNGASS) on the world drugs problem marks a significant opportunity to review the ways in which we manage illicit drug supplies and deliver support to all those affected by this pernicious trade.
“Today, in 2016, many of our youngest and most vulnerable people are targeted by drug suppliers and are coerced into crime, prostitution and a life of misery. No part of the UK is unaffected.
“The special session creates an opportunity to highlight the excellent work taking place in Scotland and to challenge other nations to refocus efforts on the implementation of human rights legislation coupled with effective international development initiatives.
“The Scottish Government has developed very progressive policies that are recognised to be among the most effective in Europe.”
Special sessions of the general assembly – the principal policy-making organ of the UN – are convened at the request of member states.
The debates next week will focus on a range of issues, including demand and supply reduction, prevention and treatment, responses to drug-related crime, countering money-laundering and promoting judicial cooperation.
There will also be a session on drugs and human rights, focusing on women, children and communities.
At a special session in 1998, member states agreed a political declaration on global drug control.
Ten years later, they met again to discuss progress and agree an updated plan of action.
