Briefing - Drug trafficking in the EU: A growing threat and how the EU tackles it - 26-05-2026
Drug trafficking poses a growing threat to citizens' wellbeing, and to EU security and the economy. As one of the primary revenue streams for organised crime, it fuels violence, corruption and instability – with over half of the EU's most dangerous criminal networks deeply involved. The EU's affluent consumer base sustains demand, while its internal market, extensive transport networks and open borders make it an attractive destination for illicit drugs. Over the past decade, the scale and sophistication of drug trafficking operations have grown exponentially, with criminal networks exploiting global supply chains, digital platforms and socioeconomic weaknesses to expand their operations. The impact is considerable. Beyond generating massive criminal profits, drug trafficking harms public health, undermines communities and undermines the legal economy, e.g. through money-laundering or corruption. Moreover, the drugs trade incites violence and other criminal activity, causes environmental damage, erodes democratic institutions and strengthens corruption, threatening the rule of law. In response, the EU has adopted a multi-faceted strategy, combining law enforcement, judicial cooperation, prevention and global partnerships. The European Parliament has been instrumental in shaping legislation, securing funding and pushing for accountability. Recent policies – such as the EU drugs strategy and EU action plan against drug trafficking – reflect a proactive and adaptive approach, while EU Justice and Home Affairs agencies play a critical role in intelligence-sharing and cross-border operations. Drug markets are rapidly changing and are increasingly sophisticated, driven by globalisation, digitalisation, and increased violence. The EU is fighting back with a strategy and actions focused on law enforcement, international cooperation, and prevention. But the challenge is growing: globalised, digital, and more violent – and the EU is aware of the need to adopt a proactive and adaptive approach. Success in the fight against drug trafficking depends on sustained cooperation between EU institutions, law enforcement and other national authorities, civil society, businesses, and international partners to cut supply, reduce demand, and protect European citizens.
Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP
03:45
03:24
15:50
