EU adopts new drugs strategy to curb trafficking and use

On 9 June the European Union Drug Agency released the 2026 European Drug Report, which highlighted a rapid transformation of the EU drug market and rising risks from substances such as nitazenes and other street drugs. The report noted that cannabis remained the most widely used drug in 2024, with 24.9 million adults aged 15‑64 reporting use, while seized illegal drugs totalled almost 900 tonnes that year.

The European Council approved the framework for a new EU drugs strategy on 4 June, following a Commission proposal put forward in December 2025 as part of the European Internal Security Strategy. The strategy aims to address security, health and social challenges linked to illicit drugs through five pillars: stronger preparedness and response, protection of public health, enhanced internal security, prevention of drug‑related harm, and stronger international partnerships. An accompanying EU action plan adds 19 practical measures to fight criminal networks. For the first time, EU member states will discuss drug use and trafficking at the European Council summit scheduled for 18‑19 June.