The usage of illicit substances is growing into a significant issue across Europe.
The use of unlawful drugs is turning into a severe issue in Europe. The latest drug report by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) highlights this "increasing threat" that was released on Tuesday at the EMCDDA headquarters in Lisbon and in Brussels. Some of the most dangerous substances include potent synthetic drugs, new drug combinations, and changing consumption habits.
EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson shared her concerns, saying, "People in Europe are combining different drugs and consuming lethal mixes of various drugs more frequently." Johansson further mentioned, "Drug abuse is getting worse (...) Individuals are unaware of what they're taking."
A major concern raised by EMCDDA is the "rising opioid problem." Since 2009, a total of 81 new synthetic opioids have emerged on the European drug market, highlighted Johansson. "Criminals are continually creating new drugs to evade detection," complained the Swede.
At least 6,392 overdose deaths connected to drugs were reported in the European Union in 2022. This is a minor increase compared to 2021 (6,166). However, it's essential to note that this statistic is only the minimum estimate. In 2020, 5,796 deaths were reported, and the number decreased to 5,141 the year before. [endif]
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The EMCDDA Drugs Report underscores Europe's growing problem with drug consumption, particularly highlighting the rising opioid issue. Despite a minor increase in drug-related overdose deaths in 2022 compared to 2021, the issue of substance abuse remains a significant concern across Europe.
