EU Drugs Agency Chief Warns: “Drugs Are Everywhere” as He Exits

UPDATE: Alexis Goosdeel, director of the EU Drugs Agency (EUDA), has issued a dire warning as he prepares to step down at the end of October 2023. “Today, drugs are everywhere,” he stated, highlighting an alarming transformation in the drug market over the past decade.

Goosdeel’s remarks come as the EU faces escalating challenges from drug trafficking and addiction, with recent data revealing a staggering 419 tonnes of cocaine seized in 2023, marking a record high for the seventh consecutive year. This urgent update raises concerns about the widespread availability of cocaine and the increasing violence associated with its trafficking across the European Union.

“Over the last six or seven years, there has been a huge increase in drug market-related violence in most EU Member States,” Goosdeel warned. He emphasized that the nature of drug-related violence has shifted dramatically, now affecting cities across Europe rather than being confined to areas like Central America.

The situation is particularly critical in the fight against cocaine use, where Goosdeel noted that the EU has fallen behind. “While we have successfully addressed heroin challenges, we are not ready to combat the surge in cocaine use,” he said. Spain recently reported its largest cocaine seizure ever—13 tonnes hidden in a shipment of bananas from Ecuador, underscoring the scale of the issue. Meanwhile, Germany seized 43 tonnes of cocaine in 2023, with 25 tonnes confiscated in the port of Hamburg alone—double the amount reported in 2022.

With the challenges mounting, Goosdeel stressed the importance of investing in new treatment protocols for cocaine addiction. “It takes approximately 10 to 12 years for someone to seek help after starting cocaine use,” he explained, emphasizing the need for improved treatment options and increased availability of medical professionals to address this growing crisis.

The increase in the variety of substances available today complicates the response from public authorities. Goosdeel highlighted that many substances used to cope with anxiety and pressure are not classified as drugs, requiring a nuanced approach to tackle addiction effectively.

“We need to act against traffickers while simultaneously finding ways to protect our citizens,” he urged. Goosdeel’s call to action resonates deeply, as he advocates for a comprehensive strategy that not only combats drug trafficking but also seeks to safeguard communities and improve opportunities for the future.

As the EU prepares for a leadership transition in addressing these ongoing challenges, the impact of Goosdeel’s tenure will be felt long after he departs. The urgency of his message underscores the critical need for immediate action to protect the health and safety of citizens across Europe.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the future direction of drug policy in the European Union.