Despite ongoing efforts to curb supply, drug availability in Europe remains high, fueling widespread use of illicit substances. The latest EMCDDA report highlights shifting consumption patterns, rising polydrug use, and the growing threat of synthetic opioids.
High stakes: Europe’s growing addiction to illegal drugs despite crackdown
Drug availability in Europe remains high, and despite efforts to curb it, drug use remains widespread. The latest report from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) offers a comprehensive overview of the situation in 2024, examining both the scale of psychoactive substance use and the associated risks.
The analysis is based on data from European Union member states, as well as Norway and Turkey. The report highlights the evolving dynamics of the drug market and the resulting challenges for public health and safety policies.
Illegal substances in Europe
The EMCDDA report confirms that cannabis remains by far the most widely used drug in Europe. However, it is not the only substance in high demand—cocaine, synthetic stimulants, MDMA, heroin, and new psychoactive substances (NPS) also play a significant role in the continent’s drug market.
A particularly concerning trend is the increasing number of people using multiple substances simultaneously. Cocaine, often combined with alcohol and tobacco, is a common element of such polydrug use, heightening the risk of severe health consequences.
Drug supply and production
The report reveals that despite law enforcement efforts, drug availability in Europe remains high. Seizure data indicate that the smuggling and production of illegal substances continue at significant levels. In 2022, a substantial number of drug precursor seizures pointed to the ongoing activity of laboratories producing synthetic substances.
Both marijuana and hashish are widely cultivated and distributed within Europe, though some production is imported. As for cocaine, the data suggests that the primary smuggling routes still lead from South America through European ports, serving as entry points before the drug reaches national markets.
Cocaine and synthetic stimulants
After cannabis, cocaine is the most widely used illicit drug in Europe. While consumption levels vary by country, the overall trend points to rising demand. One key factor is its easy availability, coupled with its frequent use alongside alcohol, which amplifies its stimulant effects.
Synthetic stimulants like amphetamine, methamphetamine, and cathinones are also gaining popularity. Of particular concern is the increasing presence of synthetic opioids, which are often far more potent than heroin and pose serious public health risks.
MDMA (ecstasy) remains a major recreational drug, especially among festival and club-goers. A report highlights that up to 79 percent of MDMA users in the European Union and Norway have taken the substance at music events, reinforcing its strong association with nightlife and entertainment culture.
Heroin, meanwhile, continues to be the most widely used illicit opioid in Europe, though consumption patterns are shifting. The growing prevalence of synthetic opioids—many of which are significantly more potent and hazardous—poses an escalating threat. The rise in overdoses underscores the urgent need for more effective prevention strategies and expanded access to substitution therapy.
New psychoactive substances: an emerging threat
Europe’s drug market is constantly evolving, with new psychoactive substances (NPS) appearing each year. These include synthetic cannabinoids, cathinones, and opioids, many of which are difficult to detect and highly dangerous. The EU’s early warning system monitors and identifies new substances to better respond to emerging risks.
Although the number of intravenous drug users is declining, they remain among the most vulnerable groups. Injecting drug use remains a major driver of HIV and hepatitis B and C infections, making harm reduction programs—such as access to clean needles, syringes, and substitution therapy—crucial.
Drug-related deaths remain a pressing concern, with opioids responsible for the majority of fatalities. Many European countries are expanding access to naloxone, a life-saving antidote for opioid overdoses, in an effort to curb mortality rates.
Why do people use drugs?
The 2024 European Online Drug Survey sheds light on the motivations behind drug use:
- For fun – 75 percent of MDMA, ketamine, and powder cocaine users cited enjoyment as their primary reason.
- To stay awake – 51 percent of amphetamine users and 44 percent of methamphetamine users took these substances for stimulation.
- For relaxation and stress relief – 60 percent of cannabis, methamphetamine, and CBD users reported using drugs to unwind.
Notably, less than 3 percent of respondents sought professional help for drug use, highlighting the need for improved access to addiction treatment.
Challenges ahead
The EMCDDA report makes it clear that Europe’s drug landscape is changing and demands modern, adaptive policies. The increasing availability of psychoactive substances, shifting usage patterns, and the rising threat of synthetic opioids present serious challenges for EU countries.
Effective drug policies must go beyond supply reduction. They should prioritize harm reduction measures, expand access to treatment, and provide better support for those struggling with addiction.
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