“Drug trafficking is a global criminal enterprise and a major threat to the well-being of Europeans, as well as to the security of Europe as a whole. Illicit drugs, such as cocaine and synthetic drugs, continue to provoke violence, corruption and exploitation of the legal economy.” This warning comes from the European Commission, which on Thursday presented its plan to combat drug smuggling, which focused on three axes: Zero for secret laboratories, combating the recruitment of minors by clans, and protecting ports.
Brussels proposes raising the level Member States are prepared through improved data, monitoring and early warning systemssupported by the European Union Drug Control Agency (EUDA) which has expanded powers to identify emerging substances and assess the risks of highly potent synthetic opioids. In parallel, UNHCR wants to protect public health through a renewed push for prevention, treatment and reintegration, under the umbrella of the initiative. Healthier togetherAccompanied by campaigns and practical guides.
The plan also focuses on security, with tightening tools against organized crime and reviewing the current legal framework before 2026. Among the priorities, cooperation between departments and companies stands out. To stop smuggling through mail and express mailIn addition to a new port strategy aimed at enhancing the control and flexibility of vital infrastructure. In addition, there are specific measures to reduce the social and environmental harms associated with drugs and protect minors from recruitment by criminal networks, through new tools and action plans at the European level.
Finally, the committee It is committed to looking beyond the borders of the European Union and strengthening alliances with third countries. The aim is to enhance practical cooperation, share capabilities and reduce rapidly evolving trafficking routes. Added to this is a greater approach towards civil organizations and private actors, who are key players in anticipating trends, filling gaps, and building a more coordinated international response to the challenge that transcends continents.
“It involves drug use A serious threat to public health as new materials increase the risks Poisoning and overdose. “In addition, drug production causes significant environmental damage, including through toxic waste. Children and young people are particularly affected,” they add from the Community Executive, which also sees a certain climate perspective. “These evolving dynamics require a stronger and more coordinated response across the EU.”
The action plan accompanying the Brussels strategy also considers it complete. The European Union wants to outmaneuver criminal networks that change their tactics and methods at high speed. For this, Frontex and Europol will strengthen their support in detecting illicit shipments At the external borders, even those arriving by speed boat. The operation of MAOC-N, which is key in interdicting maritime shipments, will also be expanded in order to make it more difficult to use the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean as drug smuggling corridors.
Another line of action focuses on stopping drug-related violence, especially among young people. Brussels It plans to create a European platform of experts to combat online recruitment And enhancing cooperation between the police, judiciary and customs forces. Sharing information and joint analysis will be essential, while Europol will work to strengthen the monitoring of digital drug markets and track suspicious activities. In parallel, EUDA will launch a European database of emerging substances and provide specialized training for dismantling synthetic laboratories.
The strategy is complemented by a commitment to innovation and an international dimension. A new security and innovation park will start in 2026 To accelerate the practical application of research projects. In addition, the EU will intensify its alliances with key countries through joint investigations and coordinated actions to protect ports, cut off new routes and weaken the resilience of smuggling networks on a global scale.
“The European Union will not tolerate criminal networks that flood our streets with cheap drugs, fueling violent crime and undermining health and security in Europe,” European Home Affairs Commissioner Magnus Brunner warned at a press conference on Thursday. “We are working with partners around the world to put an end to drug trafficking into the European Union. We are enhancing security measures to restrict supply. We are working to improve access to treatment to combat devastating health impacts.”
The commissioner also warned that there was little room for manoeuvre. “In the face of increasingly sophisticated and violent drug markets, this integrated European response, It focuses on preparedness and prevention, and aims to provide sustainable solutions Which is essential to protecting our social fabric and setting global standards for our partners.