The European Commission and the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) have released the European Drug Report 2026, revealing growing concerns over drug-related health risks, rising substance availability, and increasingly sophisticated trafficking networks across Europe.
Presented on 9 June, the report draws on data from 29 countries, including all 27 EU Member States, Türkiye, and Norway. It provides a comprehensive overview of drug use trends, supply chains, drug-related harms, and national responses, supported by more than 100 graphics and interactive dashboards designed to track developments at both European and country levels.
According to the report, opioids—often used in combination with other substances—remain the leading cause of drug-induced deaths in Europe. The European Union Drugs Agency estimates that at least 7,600 overdose deaths occurred in the EU in 2024, with most cases involving multiple drugs.
The findings also highlight the growing availability of illicit substances, including cocaine, synthetic drugs, and new psychoactive substances. The report notes that cannabis products continue to evolve, while the market for opioids and stimulants is becoming increasingly diverse and potent.
Beyond public health concerns, the report underscores the expanding security threat posed by drug trafficking networks. Organised crime groups are adapting their strategies in response to intensified enforcement at major European ports, shifting routes and using smaller ports to avoid detection. Authorities also report increasingly advanced concealment methods used to move illegal substances across borders.
The report further warns about rising levels of drug-related intimidation and violence, including the recruitment and exploitation of vulnerable young people by criminal organisations involved in the trade.
In response, the European Commission has strengthened its cooperation with Member States through updated drug control strategies and action plans targeting trafficking networks. New regulations on drug precursors introduced in 2025 aim to improve monitoring and enforcement across supply chains.
The Commission is also working closely with the European Ports Alliance, industry stakeholders, and EU agencies to curb drug trafficking through key maritime hubs. In addition, it continues collaboration with partner countries to reduce drug production at source and disrupt trafficking routes before they reach Europe.
Officials say the report reflects a drug landscape that is becoming more complex, with overlapping public health and security challenges requiring coordinated action across Europe and beyond.