EU Drug Report Highlights Emerging Fentanyl Threat

Europe is entering a new phase of its drug crisis, according to the latest annual report by the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA), which warns of the growing threat posed by synthetic opioids, particularly nitazenes and fentanyl.

Although the number of fatal overdoses remains significantly lower than in North America, the agency said several trends are cause for concern.

Nitazenes have been linked to 195 deaths in England and Wales, while fentanyl has been associated with more than 100 deaths in Bulgaria.

The report also highlights changing drug trafficking routes and new smuggling methods. Cocaine is increasingly entering Europe through smaller, less closely monitored ports, while cannabis is also being imported from North America.

Cannabis remains the most commonly used illicit drug in Europe, with nearly 25 million adults reporting use during the past year.

European authorities recorded around one million drug seizures last year and estimate the illicit cannabis market is worth approximately €12 bn ($13.7 bn).

In 2024, about 7,600 fatal overdoses were recorded across the European Union.

(reuters, mja)