The European Commission outlined a new strategy to enhance policies against drug consumption and trafficking within the European Union (EU).
The plan involves increasing the capabilities of the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) to assist member states in identifying new psychoactive substances, issuing rapid alerts, and assessing the threat posed by strong synthetic opioids.
Ursula von der Leyen’s administration aims to focus on prevention through campaigns organized by the EUDA, based in Lisbon, which assumed its responsibilities on July 2, 2024, replacing the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction.
Young people are of particular concern to the European Commission, which aims to implement measures not only to protect minors from drug use but also from being recruited by criminal groups involved in production and distribution.
The Commission stressed that this would require tougher legislation against drug trafficking, including stricter sanctions by 2026.
The Commission intends to get several proposals approved next year, including public-private cooperation to improve the detection of drugs trafficked through postal and courier services into the EU. This will align with the EU port strategy presented in 2023 during von der Leyen’s previous Commission.
The EU is also looking to cooperate with third countries, particularly in Latin America, where most drugs destined for the EU are produced.
In collaboration with Europol and Frontex, the Commission seeks to adapt to changes in drug trafficking routes and tackle the issue of narcotics transport using “fast boats” and similar vessels, although specific solutions were not detailed.
The role of Europol is emphasized, as it is appointed by the Commission to act as a liaison among national authorities of each EU member state, ensuring a coordinated drug trafficking response that is timely and relevant.
