Established in 1950 as a regional intergovernmental organization for encouraging cooperative economic and social development among nations in Asia and the Pacific, the Colombo Plan now has 26 member states. Attached to the permanent secretariat of the Colombo Plan Bureau is a Drug Advisory Program (DAP) headed by a drug advisor. The drug advisor consults with the 26 member governments and helps to develop regional programs for drug abuse prevention and control. The DAP works closely with other regional and international organizations to pursue international strategies for drug abuse control developed by the United Nations. It helps member countries increase public awareness of the dangers of drug abuse and drug trafficking. It helps member governments update their drug laws and establish agencies to control drug abuse. DAP encourages volunteer organizations and the mass media to join with government groups to combat drug abuse. It helps member governments to identify and train law enforcement and other personnel in the prevention of drug abuse and the treatment and rehabilitation of drug abusers. DAP carries out its mission through training programs, seminars, study exchanges, and research.