EMCDDA news and events

New drugs detected in the EU at the rate of around one per week, say agencies

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:06:20 GMT

New drugs were detected in the European Union last year at the rate of around one per week, according to the EMCDDA–Europol 2011 annual report on new psychoactive substances released today. A total of 49 new psychoactive substances were officially notified for the first time in 2011 via the EU early-warning system (EWS). This represents the largest number of substances ever reported in a single year, up from 41 substances reported in 2010 and 24 in 2009.

Just published: EMCDDA–Europol 2010 Annual Report

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 23:00:00 GMT

This report presents the results and outlines the key achievements for 2011 on the information exchange, risk-assessment and control of new psychoactive substances.

New drugs were detected in the European Union in 2011 at the rate of around one per week, with a total of 49 new psychoactive substances officially notified for the first time via the EU early-warning system (EWS). This represents the largest number of substances ever reported in a single year, up from 41 substances reported in 2010 and 24 in 2009. In 2011, the list of substances registered was dominated by two groups: synthetic cannabinoids (23 substances) and synthetic cathinones (8 substances). These now represent the two largest drug groups monitored by the EWS and, together, make up around two-thirds of the new drugs reported last year. All of the new compounds reported in 2011 were synthetic.

Also described in the report is the EMCDDA's monitoring of the online ‘legal high’ market. The number of online shops offering at least one psychoactive substance or product rose from 314 in January 2011 to 690 in January 2012.

EMCDDA report presents latest evidence on heroin-assisted treatment for hard-to-treat opioid users

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 07:26:34 GMT

A small population of chronic heroin users, once thought to be ‘untreatable’, is now benefitting from a novel type of therapy using medicinal heroin as the substitution drug. In a new EMCDDA Insights report out today, experts describe the development as ‘an important clinical step forward’. The report, New heroin-assisted treatment, provides the first state-of-the-art overview of research on the subject, examining the latest evidence and clinical experience in this area in Europe and internationally.

Just published: New heroin-assisted treatment

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 23:00:00 GMT

The prescription of substitution drugs, such as methadone and buprenorphine, has become a mainstream, first-line treatment for opioid dependence, with around 700 000 of Europe’s 1.3 million problem opioid users receiving substitution treatment today. But a small minority of entrenched opioid users repeatedly fails to respond to interventions of this kind. Findings from international trials now suggest that the supervised use of medicinal heroin can be an effective second-line treatment for this small, and previously unresponsive, group. In this latest EMCDDA Insights report, experts describe the development as ‘an important clinical step forward’. The report provides the first state-of-the-art overview of research on the subject, examining the latest evidence and clinical experience in this area in Europe and beyond.

Just published: EMCDDA trend report for the evaluation of the 2005–12 EU drugs strategy

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 23:00:00 GMT

This report was compiled as a supporting document for the evaluation of the 2005–12 EU drugs strategy and its two action plans: 2005–08 and 2009–12. It reviews the main trends and changes in the European drug situation and in the responses developed by the EU Member States. Four main areas are covered by the report: drug use and drug-related problems; drug supply; drug policies; and demand reduction interventions.

New EMCDDA multicity project on wastewater analysis

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 11:06:55 GMT

The EMCDDA has recently launched a multicity ‘demonstration project’ to investigate the potential of wastewater analysis as an indicator for estimating community drug use levels. By the end of 2012, the project will have generated comparable data from at least 15 European cities, thanks to an agreed common sampling approach designed to ensure maximum comparability. The project partners met in Lisbon in January to establish a project work plan and key deliverables.

World TB Day

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:53:23 GMT

World TB Day raises awareness about the global epidemic of tuberculosis (TB) and efforts to eliminate the disease. One-third of the world's population is currently infected with TB. Due to marginalisation and lifestyle, drug users face higher risks of contracting the disease than the general population. Among the core tasks of the EMCDDA are the monitoring of drug-related infectious diseases among drug users and of measures taken by the Member States in reducing and preventing infectious diseases in this vulnerable population.

UK House of Lords publishes report on EU drugs strategy

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 17:07:40 GMT

This year sees the end of the EU's current drugs strategy (2005-12) and its second four-year action plan (2009-12). In a report published today, the UK House of Lords European Union Committee looks at what the strategy has achieved, and what should come next.

Just published: A definition of 'drug mules' for use in a European context

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The trafficking of drugs and, in particular, the use of human carriers (often called ‘drug mules’) remains a relatively hidden phenomenon, on which limited information is available. This latest EMCDDA Thematic paper explores whether a common definition of ‘drug mules’ can be developed in the European context and assesses the implications of this for data gathering and future research. The paper has its roots in a questionnaire launched by the EMCDDA in 2010 to test a proposed conceptual framework of drug couriers. Taking part in the survey were experienced professionals, academics and practitioners from a variety of countries, legal traditions and law-enforcement practices. Drug mules are reported to be transporting all of the major illicit drug types through Europe and making full use of all European transport routes. This paper draws a number of conclusions and recommendations for further investigation into drug markets and related responses.

The ever-changing world of psychoactive drugs

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 14:50:43 GMT

The 'Ever-changing world of psychoactive drugs' is the focus of an international conference to take place in Budapest from 12–13 March. The event is an initiative of the EU-funded Recreational Drugs European Network (ReDNet) project and the EMCDDA. This conference will offer an opportunity to share scientific knowledge on the nature of new compounds and the clinical and legal challenges faced by multidisciplinary professionals today.

Just published: Drugnet Europe 77

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: 2012 EMCDDA work programme; ECDC-EMCDDA HIV rapid risk assessment; Romania passes law to curb distribution of new psychoactive substances; European summer school on illicit drugs; multicity project on wastewater analysis; upcoming events on new psychoactive substances; and new EMCDDA products and services.

New drug profile published on kratom

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 14:28:41 GMT

Today we published a new 'drug profile', on kratom, the name given to tree or leaf preparations of the South-east Asian tree Mitragyna speciosa. The main psychoactive components in the leaves are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Traditionally the leaves are chewed or made into tea but are seldom smoked. At a low dose, kratom has stimulant effects and is used to combat fatigue during long working hours. At high dosages, it can have sedative-narcotic effects. Kratom is used in traditional medicine and as an opium substitute. It was the most commonly found substance sold through online new drugs/'www.emcdda.europa.eu/publications/drug-profiles/kratomlegal highs' shops in an EMCDDA assessment (‘snapshot’) carried out in July 2011.

Just published: Reitox network: FAQs

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This information brochure has been produced by the EMCDDA to provide answers to the most commonly asked questions on the Reitox network of national focal points and more broadly on national drugs observatories. Compiled over several years, it is a reference tool for both EU Member States and countries further afield on the network, its members, its role and development.

Just published: Work programme 2012

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The 2012 EMCDDA work programme takes forward activities begun in 2010 to implement the EMCDDA's three-year strategy (2010–12). This strategy seeks to: consolidate and deepen the analysis of core datasets held at the EMCDDA; invest in more complex and policy-relevant analysis; and develop a small number of new areas of strategic importance. It also reflects on the obligations of the agency’s mission statement and is sensitive to the needs of the EU drugs strategy and action plan (2009–12). The 2012 work programme presents specific objectives accompanied by their related activities and expected outcomes. This new structure is the result of the ongoing rationalisation of planning processes and procedures taking place within the EMCDDA.

Just published: HIV in injecting drug users in the EU/EEA

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In response to a notified increase in HIV cases among injecting drug users (IDU) in Greece and Romania, the European Commission asked the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) in November 2011 to conduct a rapid inquiry among their network of HIV surveillance- and drug focal points to investigate whether such increases had occurred in other countries. The assessment showed that while most European countries reported no changes in the rate of newly diagnosed cases of HIV or HIV prevalence in IDU in 2011, increases were documented in six countries. Indicators of injecting risk and prevention coverage show a potential risk for increased HIV transmission and future outbreaks in several countries.

Just published: Kosovo (under UNSCR 1244/99): country overview 2010

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This country overview provides a structured synopsis of the trends and characteristics of national drug problems in Kosovo (under UNSCR 1244/99) in 2010. It consists of a summary of the national drug situation presenting brief information in key areas (drugs prevalence, prevention, harm reduction, drug laws etc.).

Registration opens for European summer school on illicit drugs

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 15:17:03 GMT

The Lisbon-based Instituto Superior das Ciências do Trabalho e da Empresa (ISCTE) and the EU drugs agency (EMCDDA) are currently collaborating on a summer school programme entitled: ‘Illicit drugs in Europe: supply, demand and public policies’. Registration opens today for the course which will take place in Lisbon from 2–13 July 2012.

Latest analysis highlights changing trends in illicit production of amphetamine in Europe

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:03:44 GMT

Increased capacity and sophistication in the illicit amphetamine market are among developments reviewed in the EMCDDA–Europol analysis Amphetamine: a European Union perspective in the global context. Published today, the report describes how patterns and trends are changing in the production and trafficking of this widely used synthetic stimulant and the chemicals used in its manufacture. It also looks at the people and organisations involved, and the scale of the problem in a global context.

Just published: Amphetamine: a European Union perspective in the global context

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This joint publication with the European Police Agency, Europol, is an in-depth study on the illicit market in amphetamine. Bringing together data on law enforcement measures such as drug seizures and clandestine laboratory detections with data on drug use prevalence, the report shows that Europe is the world’s number one producer of amphetamine and a major consumer market. As a synthetic drug that can be manufactured close to its market, measures aimed at disrupting amphetamine supply include restricting access to the chemicals used in its production. The illicit market, however, has developed sophisticated responses to these and other control measures. Highlighting the role of cooperation between law enforcement agencies in different countries, the study points to the need for a better understanding of illicit amphetamine markets to underpin a more effective and informed policy response.

Job vacancy: Information and communication technology assistant

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 14:16:04 GMT

Just published: Responding to new psychoactive substances

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This briefing paper describes some of the practical and legal obstacles facing Member States when responding to such new substances. It underlines the importance of national early-warning systems in detecting and identifying new substances as the first step towards assessing the risks of, and ultimately controlling, potentially dangerous new drugs.

EMCDDA launches first European quality standards to improve drug prevention in the EU

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 11:47:17 GMT

‘Prevention’ is one of the first issues to be mentioned in the public debate on drugs, but evidence of what works in practice to prevent drug use is often overlooked. Today the EMCDDA launches the first European ‘how to’ guide on conducting high-quality drug prevention. Entitled European drug prevention quality standards: a manual for prevention professionals, it will be presented at an international conference hosted by the agency in Lisbon this week.

Just published: European drug prevention quality standards

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This Manual is a joint production by the EMCDDA and the Prevention Standards Partnership, and presents and describes basic and expert level quality standards for drug prevention. The standards cover all aspects of drug prevention work, including needs and resource assessment, programme planning, intervention design, resource management, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, dissemination, sustainability, stakeholder involvement, staff development, and ethics. Considerations regarding the standards’ real-life implementation are provided, acknowledging differences in professional culture, policy, and the structure of prevention delivery within Europe.

International experts to examine the influence of social and economic environments on substance use

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:44:13 GMT

Leading international experts in prevention research will meet in Lisbon from 8–9 December to examine the influence of social and economic environments on substance use. Over 100 participants from some 20 countries will gather at the 2nd International Conference of the European Society for Prevention Research (EUSPR), hosted by the EU drugs agency (EMCDDA).

EMCDDA and ESPAD to scale up cooperation through new joint actions

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:56:54 GMT

The EMCDDA and the European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs (ESPAD) pledged to scale up their cooperation today in a joint statement adopted at the 2011 ESPAD project meeting. The event, hosted by the EMCDDA in Lisbon (27–29 November), brings together participants from 39 European countries.

ECDC and EMCDDA to host joint scientific seminar at the European Parliament on the eve of World AIDS Day

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:55:41 GMT

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) will join forces in Brussels on the eve of World AIDS Day (30 November) to host a scientific seminar at the European Parliament. The seminar will bring prominent speakers to Brussels to discuss with MEPs ways to prevent and control infections among people who inject drugs and to address the risk and burden of HIV and AIDS-related infections, such as hepatitis B and C in EU countries.

The EMCDDA calls for applications from graduate trainees

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 16:18:17 GMT

The EMCDDA is callsing for applications from graduate trainees. Closing date for applications: 15 January 2012. Place of employment: Lisbon, Portugal.

Drugs report: Commissioner Malmström calls for vigilance on synthetic drugs and asks more anti-trafficking efforts

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:01:57 GMT

The Annual report 2011, released today by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), shows drug use to be relatively stable in Europe, with some positive signs that cocaine use may have peaked and that cannabis use continues to decline among young people. But signs of stability in the use of the more established drugs are offset by the emergence of new threats. These include the increased availability of synthetic drugs, the rapid appearance of new substances and widespread 'polydrug' use (the use of more than one type of drug at one time). Also highlighted in the report are new concerns over the potential for HIV outbreaks among people who inject drugs.

Policies and responses must be fit to face the challenges of the next decade, says drugs agency chief

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:55:52 GMT

The Annual report 2011: the state of the drugs problem in Europe is 'one of contrasts', says the EU drugs agency (EMCDDA). Launched today in Lisbon, the report shows drug use to be relatively stable in Europe, with some positive signs that cocaine use may have peaked and that cannabis use continues to decline among young people. But signs of stability with some of the more established drugs are offset by new threats. Explored in the report are developments in the synthetic drugs market, the rapid appearance of new substances and widespread polydrug use. Delivering the agency’s annual assessment, EMCDDA Director Wolfgang Götz said: 'Europe’s drug policies and responses must now be configured to face the challenges of the next decade'.

EU drugs agency releases new analysis of Europe’s changing opioid problem

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:54:31 GMT

Heroin use continues to account for the largest share of drug-related diseases and deaths in the EU. The EU drugs agency (EMCDDA) estimates that there are over 1.3 million regular opioid users in the EU and Norway. And around half (51 %) of the drug users entering specialised treatment in Europe report opioids as their main problem drug.

Just published: 2011 Annual report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe presents the EMCDDA's yearly overview of the drug phenomenon. This is an essential reference book for policymakers, specialists and practitioners in the drugs field or indeed anyone seeking the latest findings on drugs in Europe. Published every autumn, the report contains non-confidential data supported by an extensive range of figures. Please also see the corrigendum.

Just published: Cost and financing of drug treatment services

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This Selected issue provides an exploratory European overview of costs associated with treatment for drug dependence. The cost of drug treatment in Europe is looked at from two main angles in this report. First, an overview is presented of the main sources of funding for drug treatment and the financing mechanisms that are employed in a number of European countries. This is followed by a focused analysis of the unit costs of the four main drug treatment modalities (detoxification, psychosocial inpatient, psychosocial outpatient and opioid substitution treatment).
A summary of the contents is available.

Just published: Drugnet Europe 76

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: Annual report 2011 highlights; EMCDDA scientific paper award; ‘Have your say’ in two online surveys; technical cooperation with the Eastern partnership countries; European summer school on illicit drugs; and a new EMCDDA manual on prevention.

Just published: Guidelines for the treatment of drug dependence

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

At least 1.1 million Europeans are estimated to have received treatment for drug dependence during 2009, mostly through opioid substitution, detoxification and psychosocial interventions, delivered in a variety of settings. While more than half of the clients received opioid substitution treatment, a substantial number received other forms of treatment for problems related to opioids, stimulants, cannabis and other illicit drugs. The quality of interventions is underpinned by treatment guidelines. This Selected issue focuses on the topic of improving treatment quality by the development of guidelines, and provides an overview of existing national guidelines for the treatment of drug dependence in Europe.

Just published: Mortality

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This Selected issue focuses on mortality among drug users due to all causes, of which drug-induced deaths (overdoses) is only a component, albeit the one most well-documented. The publication begins with an introduction to mortality cohort studies and then reviews the findings on overall mortality rates in Europe. The available sources of data are examined to explore the main causes of deaths among drug users and the latest information on risk and protective factors. The Selected issue finishes with a discussion of the public health implications of drug-related mortality and the options available for prevention and intervention.
A summary of the contents is available.

Just published: Online sales of new psychoactive substances / 'legal highs'

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The EMCDDA monitors unregulated psychoactive products — the so-called ‘legal highs’ — sold via the Internet and advertised with aggressive and sophisticated marketing strategies, and in some cases intentionally mislabelled with declared ingredients differing from the actual composition. The ‘legal highs’ market is distinguished by the speed at which suppliers circumvent drug controls by offering new alternatives. The EMCDDA has been monitoring the marketing of these new psychoactive substances since 2006 through multilingual Internet ‘snapshots’, which function as rapid assessments of the online availability of substances, undertaken during a limited time window. Changes in the methods used have increased the quality and coverage of these surveys, but mean that data for different snapshots may not be directly comparable. This paper presents findings from the two most recent snapshots, performed in January and July 2011.

Just published: Trendspotter report

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The first EMCDDA Trendspotter meeting, on Recent shocks in the European heroin market: explanations and ramifications, took place in Lisbon on 18–19 October 2011. The purpose of the meeting was to increase understanding of the 2010/2011 heroin shortage reported by some European countries and to explore issues of drug replacement. Sixteen experts from 14 European countries presented their experiences of recent trends in heroin availability and use and the replacement of heroin by other illicit drugs or medicines, providing insights from different disciplinary perspectives.

EMCDDA celebrates scientific writing with new award

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:28:35 GMT

Five scientific papers judged to enhance understanding of the European drugs problem will be acclaimed on 14 November in Lisbon in a new award ceremony hosted by the EU drugs agency (EMCDDA) and its Scientific Committee.

The prize, to be awarded annually in Lisbon, celebrates scientific writing in this area of key concern to EU citizens. The inaugural event will be held in the margins of the EMCDDA Scientific Committee meeting. It takes place on the eve of the launch of the Annual report 2011: the state of the drugs problem in Europe.

New job vacancy: Scientific assistant

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 17:01:43 GMT

Contract Agent (M/F) FGIII, five-year contract (renewable).

Closing date for applications: 03.12.2011 at 17h00.

Place of employment: Lisbon, Portugal.

Just published: Pilot study on wholesale drug prices in Europe

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 23:00:00 GMT

The European Union Drug Strategy for the period 2009–12 sets the goal to yield concrete and identifiable improvements concerning the knowledge of drugs trafficking. In addition, the EU Drugs Action Plan for 2009–12 defines among others the objectives to develop key-indicators of policy-relevant data on drug markets, as well as a strategy to collect them. This pilot study on wholesale drug markets aims to contribute to this process, starting by discussing the utility of collecting wholesale drug prices in Europe. In order to assess the feasibility of this collection process, this study provides an overview of the procedures implemented nationally and of the information available in European countries on wholesale drug prices.

Just published: Prevention profiles 2011

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 23:00:00 GMT

What are countries in Europe doing to prevent illicit drug use? 'Prevention profiles' try to answer this question by providing information based on expert appraisal of the level of provision of different prevention measures in Europe.

Seven ways to reduce infections among people who inject drugs

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:56:20 GMT

Seven interventions, one aim: no infections among people who inject drugs. In a new guidance document out today, EU agencies ECDC and the EMCDDA have joined forces to identify seven interventions to reduce and prevent infectious diseases in this vulnerable population. Many European countries have achieved substantial progress in recent years in preventing drug-related infections. Drug injecting, however, remains a major cause of infectious diseases across Europe.

Just published: Prevention and control of infectious diseases among people who inject drugs

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 23:00:00 GMT

This joint guidance report explores good public health practices that can support effective policies to reduce infections. Common blood-borne viruses in this group include HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. These are mainly spread through the sharing of needles, syringes and drug preparation equipment or unprotected sexual contacts.

15 November 2011, Lisbon — EU drugs agency to present the latest statistics, trends and analysis

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 09:06:25 GMT

The EMCDDA will present its annual assessment of Europe’s drugs problem in its Annual report 2011 to be released on 15 November in Lisbon. The report, the agency’s flagship publication, provides the latest data and commentary on the drug situation across the 27 EU Member States, Croatia, Turkey and Norway. Key challenges are discussed along with some of the promising practices used to address drug problems today.

Just published: Drugnet Europe 75

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the Agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: Drugnet Europe reader survey; monitoring wholesale drug prices in Europe; Eurobarometer survey on young people’s attitudes to drugs; call for input in the development of indicators of drug supply in Europe; forum on new drugs — reflections and conclusions; new EMCDDA products and services.

Survey results: youth attitudes to drugs

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:59:29 GMT

The European Commission released today the results of its fourth survey exploring Youth attitudes on drugs. This ‘Flash Eurobarometer’ is based on telephone interviews conducted in May 2011 with over 12 000 randomly selected young people (aged 15–24) in all 27 EU Member States. It builds on three earlier Eurobarometer surveys carried out in 2002, 2004 and 2008.

Among the issues covered by the survey are: perceptions on the health risks of drug use; attitudes to banning or regulating substances; views on the availability of drugs; and opinions on the effectiveness of policies. For the first time, questions were included on new psychoactive substances (‘legal highs’).

Just published: Statistical bulletin 2011

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:00:00 GMT

The Statistical bulletin is a key resource published yearly by the EMCDDA and provides access to the most recent statistical data relating to the drugs situation in Europe, including over 400 tables and graphs. It constitutes the epidemiological basis on which the EMCDDA's Annual report is written.

Just published: Annual accounts 2010

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 23:00:00 GMT

In accordance with Article 76 of the Financial Regulation applicable to the EMCDDA, the accounts of the EMCDDA shall comprise: 'The financial statements of the EMCDDA and the reports on implementation of the budget of the EMCDDA. The accounts of the EMCDDA shall be accompanied by a report on budgetary and financial management during the year.'

Just published: Khat use in Europe

Sun, 03 Jul 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Khat leaves are cultivated in the highlands of the Horn of Africa, Southern Arabia and along the East African coast. In many countries, chewing khat is an age-old tradition. More recently, the mass migration of people from the Horn of Africa has been associated with the spread of khat usage to neighbouring countries, Europe and the rest of the world. Exact numbers of regular khat users on a worldwide scale do not exist, however estimates range up to 20 million. This paper presents the challenges associated with the spread of khat consumption.

Just published: Portugal drug policy profile

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 23:00:00 GMT

The EMCDDA Drug policy profiles aim to describe some of the main characteristics of national drug policies in Europe and beyond. The profiles do not attempt to assess these policies, but instead outline their development and main features. The objective is to help readers — from researchers to policymakers — gain a better understanding of the way in which countries control drugs and respond to drug-related security, social and health problems. This first profile describes the national drug policy of Portugal, a policy that has attracted significant attention recently in the media and in policy debates. It considers national strategies and action plans, the legal context within which they operate and the public funds spent, or committed, to resource them. It also describes the political bodies and mechanisms set up to coordinate the response to the multi-faceted problem and the systems of evaluation that may help to improve future policy.

Just published: General report of activities 2010

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 23:00:00 GMT

The General report of activities is an annual publication providing a detailed progress report of the EMCDDA’s activities over a 12-month period. It catalogues the Centre’s achievements in each area of its annual work programme. The report is a useful information source for all those seeking comprehensive information on the Centre and its work.

The EMCDDA's activity in the area of 'new drugs'

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 09:31:12 GMT

The EMCDDA is increasingly active in monitoring new psychoactive substances which may pose health and social risks to our societies. A new psychoactive substance is defined as 'a new narcotic or psychotropic drug, in pure form or in preparation, that is not controlled by the United Nations drug conventions, but which may pose a public health threat comparable to that posed by substances listed in these conventions'. Find out more in our revamped 'Action on new drugs' page.

AIDS 2011 conference, 25–27 May, Tallinn, Estonia

Tue, 24 May 2011 09:54:24 GMT

Leading experts in the area of infectious diseases come together in Tallinn from 25–27 May for a major European conference: ‘HIV in the European region: unity and diversity'. Key issues regarding the epidemiology, prevention and care of HIV/AIDS in Europe will be debated at the event, along with the benefits of regional cooperation and networking. The EMCDDA takes part in the conference Scientific Board and Organising Committees and EMCDDA staff members will speak at the event.

EMCDDA Scientific Committee elects new leaders

Fri, 20 May 2011 12:23:17 GMT

The EMCDDA Scientific Committee, meeting in Lisbon this week, elected its new Chair and Vice Chair for the next three years. Dr Marina Davoli (Italian) was elected by an overwhelming majority to the position of Chair and Prof. Dr Gerhard Bühringer (German) to the position of Vice Chair.

The Scientific Committee plays a major role in the EMCDDA’s efforts to attain scientific excellence. It is composed of 15 high-level scientists from the EU Member States plus one from Norway, selected through a public selection process based on scientific merit and independence. The EMCDDA Director and Management Board consult the Committee on the agency’s work programmes or on any scientific matter concerning its activity. The Committee plays a pivotal role in the agency’s risk assessment of new psychoactive substances.

Provision of training services for EMCDDA staff (deadline: 21.06.2011)

Tue, 17 May 2011 08:22:27 GMT

The EMCDDA has published the following invitation to tender: 2011/S 93-151681 - FC.11.ADM.040.4.0 - Training Services for the EMCDDA Staff. The invitation was published in the Official Journal of the European Communities N° S 93 on 14/05/2011 and is available in all the European languages. Only the text published in the OJ is authentic. The Official Journal mentioned is available at the usual sales points of the Publications Office of the European Union.

Building an EU consensus for minimum quality standards in the prevention, treatment and harm reduction of drugs, 15–17 June 2011, Brussels

Mon, 16 May 2011 14:41:17 GMT

Improving the quality and effectiveness of prevention, treatment, harm reduction, rehabilitation and social reintegration is a priority under the EU Drugs Strategy. To achieve this important goal, EU governments agreed, in the EU Drugs Action Plan 2009–2012, to develop a European consensus on minimum quality standards and benchmarks in the field of drug demand reduction and put in place a common reference framework. A range of national standards and good practice guidelines are in place across the European Union. This conference, hosted by the European Commission in association with the Hungarian Presidency of the EU, will discuss the preliminary findings of a Commission study carried out by the Swiss Research Institute for Public Health and Addiction at Zürich University (ISGF) in collaboration with the EMCDDA and the World Health Organisation. Building a consensus in consultation with stakeholders will be key to the success towards building a European framework for minimum quality standards in the field of drug demand reduction.

International symposium on dismantling transnational illicit networks

Mon, 16 May 2011 09:21:31 GMT

The European Union and the United States will co-host an International symposium on dismantling transnational illicit networks from 17–19 May in Lisbon. The event is organised by the European external action service, in close collaboration with the European Commission and the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement. On 18 May, participants from the symposium will visit the EMCDDA.

Concluding remarks from the First international forum on new drugs, 11–12 May 2011, Lisbon

Fri, 13 May 2011 12:36:18 GMT

Leading European and international experts on new drugs met in Lisbon from 11–12 May at the First international multidisciplinary forum on new drugs, organised by the EMCDDA. A report on the forum proceedings will be available in the coming weeks. Initial concluding remarks, delivered at the closing session on 12 May by EMCDDA Scientific Director Paul Griffiths, are available.

Call for input

Thu, 12 May 2011 09:30:20 GMT

With a view to preparing the three working groups that will be organised later in 2011 at the EMCDDA, we would be happy to receive suggestions from a wide community of experts on the potential indicators that could be developed in the areas of:

drug markets
drug related crime
drug supply reduction

Should you be interested in contributing to the development of these indicators, please send any idea or comment you may have to: paulete.duque[a]emcdda.europa.eu

Deadline for submissions: 31 August 2011.

New drugs becoming available at 'unprecedented pace', says EMCDDA-Europol 2010 implementation report

Wed, 11 May 2011 09:43:25 GMT

New psychoactive substances are becoming widely available at an 'unprecedented pace'. This is according to the EMCDDA–Europol 2010 annual report on new drugs entering the European market released today in Lisbon. In 2010, a record number of new drugs were officially reported to the EMCDDA and Europol via the EU early-warning system (EWS) on new psychoactive substances.

A total of 41 new psychoactive substances were officially notified for the first time to the two agencies in 2010. This represents the largest number of substances ever reported in a single year, considerably up on 2009 (24 substances) and 2008 (13 substances). The full list of substances notified, annexed to the report, shows a 'rather diverse' group, including: synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic cathinones, synthetic derivatives of well-established drugs, as well as one plant-based substance.

Just published: Drugnet Europe 74

Tue, 10 May 2011 23:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the Agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: over 40 new drugs reported in 2010; HIV in the European region; mapping 'drug squads' in Europe; khat use in Europe; new EMCDDA products and services.

Just published: EMCDDA–Europol 2010 Annual Report

Tue, 10 May 2011 23:00:00 GMT

This report presents the results and outlines the key achievements for 2010 on the information exchange, risk-assessment and control of new psychoactive substances.

In 2010, 41 new psychoactive substances were officially notified for the first time in the European Union through the Early-Warning System (EWS). Of those, 15 were synthetic cathinones and 11 were synthetic cannabinoids. Substances belonging to more established chemical families were also reported – five phenethylamines, one tryptamine and one piperazine. The list of newly notified substances was rather diverse and also included a plant-based substance, a synthetic cocaine, a ketamine derivative, a phencyclidine derivative, an indane, a benzofuran, as well as a substance which can be seen as a designer medicine.

The report also describes the increased availability of 'legal highs' and the EMCDDA's activities in monitoring the online shops selling these products, as well as the risk assessment of mephedrone, which was submitted to control measures and criminal penalties throughout the European Union.

EMCDDA celebrates Europe day with partners in Lisbon

Fri, 06 May 2011 11:26:26 GMT

The EU drugs agency (EMCDDA) will be hosting an exhibition stand during upcoming Europe Day celebrations in Lisbon from 7–9 May. This year the focus of events will be on young people, in the context of the EU flagship campaign ‘Youth on the move’. The stand will be located in the Europe Day exhibition tent at Praça do Rossio, where staff members will be meeting the public and talking about their work.

The initiative is organised by the representation of the European Commission in Portugal, in partnership with the European Parliament office in Portugal, the Presidency of the European Union (Hungary) and the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Concerts, debates, workshops and theatre will be among the attractions.

Leading experts to review global developments in new drugs and legal highs

Fri, 06 May 2011 10:46:04 GMT

Leading European and international experts on new drugs will meet in Lisbon from 11–12 May to take stock of what has now become a global phenomenon. The First international multidisciplinary forum on new drugs, organised by the EU drugs agency (EMCDDA), will provide a comprehensive overview on new psychoactive substances and identify common anchor points to inform future actions.

Ahead of the event, EMCDDA Director Wolfgang Götz referred to the dynamic nature of new drugs — often referred to as ‘legal highs’ — and the timeliness of an event of this kind. ‘The rate at which this phenomenon is developing is reflected, not only in the sheer number of substances appearing on the market, but also in their diversity and in how they are produced, distributed and marketed. These developments pose a serious challenge to how we currently monitor, assess and respond to new psychoactive substances,’ he said.

Read the full news release.

Just published: Report on the risk assessment of mephedrone in the framework of the Council Decision on new psychoactive substances

Wed, 04 May 2011 23:00:00 GMT

This publication presents the summary findings and the conclusions of the risk assessment on mephedrone, carried out by the EMCDDA’s extended Scientific Committee, with participation of additional experts from the European Commission, Europol and the EMA. The risk assessment report, which was submitted to the European Commission and the Council of the European Union 26 May 2010, examines the health and social risks of the drug, as well as information on international trafficking and the involvement of organised crime. Furthermore, the report considers the potential implications for placing the drug under control in the EU. On the basis of this report — and on the initiative of the European Commission — on 2 December 2010, the Council decided that mephedrone is to be subject to control measures.

Reminder: EMCDDA scientific paper award: deadline 2 May 2011

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:21:40 GMT

New prize for Europe's top scientific papers on drugs

Europe’s top scientific papers on drug-related topics will be acknowledged this year in a new award launched by the EMCDDA. The prize giving, to take place annually in Lisbon, will celebrate excellence in scientific writing in this area of critical concern to EU citizens. The inaugural event will take place in the margins of the EMCDDA Scientific Committee meeting, being held in the Portuguese capital from 14–15 November. Articles eligible for nomination for the award will focus on illicit drugs, although findings on licit substances may also be included. The articles will have been published in 2010 in peer-reviewed scientific journals, with the primary author based in an EU Member State or Norway. Entries may be submitted in any of the 23 languages of the European Union or in Norwegian, along with an abstract in English.

Just published: Drugnet Europe 73

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the Agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: mephedrone ban across the EU; Poland passes new law to control ‘head shops’ and ‘legal highs’; a new European Society for Prevention Research; 2011 EMCDDA work programme; a new prize for top scientific papers; new EMCDDA products and services.

Just published: Budget 2011

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The EMCDDA receives stable funding under Commission budget line B3-441 of the general budget of the European Union. Each year, a preliminary draft budget is presented by the Centre's Director to the Management Board, which may modify the draft before adopting it and submitting it to the European Commission. The Commission, in turn, makes its recommendations (which may again alter the draft) and presents the result to the European Council and Parliament.

EU agencies at the European Parliament (24.01.2011)

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 15:28:34 GMT

24.01.2011 EU agencies at the European Parliament

From Helsinki to Crete and from Lisbon to Vilnius, specialised agencies have been established to provide services, information, know-how and advice to the European Union, its Member States and citizens. At an upcoming exhibition at the European Parliament, 29 EU agencies will come together to explain what they do, why they exist and how they impact on the lives of Europe’s 500 million citizens.

Just published: Work programme 2011

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The 2011 work programme takes forward activities begun in 2010 to implement the EMCDDA’s three-year strategy (2010–12). Key themes of this strategy are the consolidation of core data, investment in more complex and policy-relevant analysis, and the development of a small number of new areas of strategic importance. Progress was made in all these areas in 2010, and this document details the next steps to be taken.

Just published: First European conference on drug supply indicators — key conclusions

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The main goal of the First European conference on drug supply indicators was to launch the work needed to establish a set of technically sound and sustainable indicators for monitoring drug markets, crime and supply reduction for Europe. The event brought together for the first time a wide range of European and international experts to assess the current state of the art in this domain and develop a realistic strategy for moving forward in an area of importance for European drug policies. The conference was a joint venture between the European Commission (EC) and the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) with the active involvement of Europol.

The key conclusions from the event are presented in this document.

Just published: Guidelines for testing HIV, viral hepatitis and other infections in injecting drug users

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Infectious diseases are among the most serious health consequences of injecting drug use and can lead to significant healthcare costs. Injecting drug users are vulnerable to a range of infectious and communicable diseases through a variety of risk behaviours, and because of underlying
conditions such as poor hygiene, homelessness and poverty.
There is a recognised need for guidance on providing IDUs with a medical examination and testing for HIV, viral hepatitis and several other infections on a regular basis. In addition, improving testing uptake in this group would benefit epidemiological surveillance and monitoring as carried out at the national and international level.
These guidelines are accompanied by a recommended package of prevention and primary care in relation to injecting drug users and infections. Treatment and other specialist care are not discussed in detail but are dealt with by indicating referral to appropriate services.

Just published: 2010 Annual report

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Just published: Drugnet Europe 72

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the Agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: EMCDDA releases Annual report 2010; Old realities, new threats and economic austerity; domestic cannabis cultivation widespread; amphetamines: a major problem in parts of Europe; Heroin problems — no sign of decline; Older drug users: a growing issue for Europe’s treatment services; EMCDDA and CICAD sign three-year work programme; new products and services.

Just published: Problem amphetamine and methamphetamine use in Europe

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Focusing on European countries where amphetamine or methamphetamine is an important part of the drug problem, this Selected issue looks at the current situation in the light of the historical development of amphetamines use since the introduction of these substances as medicines in the 1930s. The history of amphetamines use is the result of an interplay of global forces, such as the spread of recreational drug use in the 1960s and the arrival of heroin on the European drug scene in the 1970s, and local events such as the rise of small-scale pervitin (methamphetamine) production in what was then Czechoslovakia. The outcome of this is that, in the present day, problem amphetamines use across Europe is marked by strong national characteristics, possibly more so than any other of the major illicit drugs.

A multilingual summary of the contents is available >>

Just published: Treatment and care for older drug users

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

'Drug problems have no age limits' -- This special review published alongside the 2010 Annual report, reveals why drug use is no longer simply a ‘youth phenomenon’.

Europe is experiencing a pronounced ageing of its population, around a quarter of which will be aged 65 or over by 2050. Statistics published today show that Europe’s drug-using population is also ageing and that meeting the needs of older drug users is a growing issue for treatment services. This is particularly the case in western countries which saw the EU’s first heroin epidemics in the 1980s and 1990s.

Annual report launch: Wednesday, 10 November 2010

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 07:35:21 GMT

2010 Annual report launch

Launch date: Wednesday, 10 November 2010
Time: 10:00 Western European Time (Lisbon) (11:00 CET)
Venue: EMCDDA Conference Centre, Cais do Sodré, Lisbon
2010 Annual report event page

Just published: Prevention profiles

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 23:00:00 GMT

What are countries in Europe doing to prevent illicit drug use? The Prevention profiles section of the website tries to answer this question by providing information on the level of provision of different prevention measures in EU Member States, Croatia, Turkey and Norway.

Just published: NDO handbook

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 23:00:00 GMT

National drugs observatories have flourished and developed rapidly over the last two decades as a direct consequence of the decisions taken to establish regional drug monitoring systems, both in the European Union and in the Americas. Initially, there was no reference framework available — observatories were set-up using trial and error, taking into account different national contexts and resources. This explains why today there are as many models of observatories as there are countries establishing them.

Looking back at this long process, there seemed to be a need to formalise the experiences in the field, and to identify some key concepts and principles that remain valid irrespective of country or region. This handbook, a joint production by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission of the Organization of American States (CICAD–OAS), presents and describes in a clear and informative way the core operational processes and the key strategic factors that are common to all national drugs observatories.

The handbook is currently available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Croatian, Turkish and Russian. An Arabic edition is planned for spring 2011.

Just published: The European Union and the drug phenomenon: frequently asked questions

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Respect for fundamental rights, protection of public health, well-being, social cohesion and security are the objectives that guide the actions taken by the European Union in the field of illicit drugs. The EU drugs strategy 2005–12 provides the framework for enhanced coordination between action taken at national, EU and international level and commits the members of the EU to tackle illicit drugs by striking a balance between reducing supply and demand.

This joint publication between the EMCDDA and the European Commission brings together some of the key frequently asked questions on the EU’s drugs policy and how it functions. Further details can be found via the websites and other links provided at the end of each answer. The brochure exists in English and French language versions.

Just published: National report 2009: Luxembourg

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Commissioned each year by the EMCDDA and produced by the national focal points of the Reitox network, the National reports draw an overall picture of the drug phenomenon at national level in each EU Member state. These data are key information to the EMCDDA and are an important resource, among others for the compilation of its 'Annual report'.

Just published: National report 2009: Slovenia

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Just published: Drugnet Europe 71

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the Agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: injecting drug use stable or declining; early-warning system annual meeting; EU scientific experts to assess risks of mephedrone; harm reduction moves to the mainstream; EMCDDA and EMA step up cooperation; European technical conference on drug supply indicators coming up; EMCDDA-CICAD cooperation; new products and services.

Just published: National reports 2009

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Just published: Statistical bulletin 2010

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Just published: Trends in injecting drug use in Europe

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Trends in injecting drug use in Europe is the title of the latest EMCDDA Selected issue publication. This volume brings together data from a wide variety of sources as it describes Europe’s current drug injecting problem and plots its trends in recent years.

Responses to drug injecting and measures to reduce the harm caused by this form of drug use are also reviewed. The report finds that the available data point to a stable or declining trend of injecting in most European countries, with effective treatment and harm-reduction measures now reaching many users. Despite this, there is still a large population of drug injectors in Europe, and there continue to be signs of recent recruitment in some countries.

A multilingual summary of the contents is available >>

Just published: General report of activities 2009

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Just published: Prevention and Evaluation Resources Kit (PERK)

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 23:00:00 GMT

This manual compiles basic but evidence-based prevention principles, planning rules and evaluation tips. Additionally, it provides related documentation or references for download; it is hoped that this additional material will be particularly useful for readers who have difficulty accessing the scientific prevention literature. To illustrate the theoretical discussion, an intervention example, partly based on a real-life situation, gives a practical perspective.

Just published: Children's voices

Thu, 27 May 2010 23:00:00 GMT

The purpose of this paper is to give meaning and insight into some of the key drug and alcohol issues that affect children from the perspectives of the children themselves. It is not to estimate the relative magnitude of a specific drug or alcohol problem or the numbers of children affected by it. Each section of this paper is preceded by one or two key statistics and whilst the quotations that follow may highlight a need to develop more robust and detailed statistics on a key issue, the overriding objective is to give the children a voice.

Just published: Drugnet Europe 70

Mon, 17 May 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the Agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: record number of new drugs in 2009; EMCDDA and ECDC assess anthrax outbreak among heroin users; global audit of HIV services for IDUs reveals low levels of provision; sharing information on drug treatment demand in the Mediterranean; drug use and pregnancy — challenges for public health; latest analysis of cocaine market highlights 'secondary extraction' laboratories in Europe; new products and services.

Just published: EMCDDA–Europol 2009 Annual Report

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 23:00:00 GMT

This report presents the results and outlines the key achievements and challenges faced by mechanism set up by the Council Decision in 2009.

In 2009, 24 new psychoactive substances were officially notified for the first time in the European Union through the Early-Warning System (EWS). All new compounds were synthetic, including two substances with medicinal properties. Nine of the reported substances were synthetic cannabinoids from four distinct chemical groups. Beyond these, there was a mix of substances belonging to more established chemical families – five phenethylamines, two tryptamines and four synthetic cathinones. No new piperazines or psychoactive plants were reported.

The report also highlights the emergence of new, smokable herbal products laced with synthetic cannabinoids and the growing popularity of various synthetic cathinones as significant new developments in the field of so-called ‘legal highs’. Furthermore, the report includes a brief follow-up on the piperazine derivative mCPP, a brief threat assessment, a review of the EWS achievements, and a look into some of its challenges.

Just published: Cocaine: a European Union perspective in the global context

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 23:00:00 GMT

This report provides an overview of what is known about how cocaine is produced and trafficked into the European Union. It aims to provide a better understanding of the actors involved, the routes taken, and the scale of the problem in Europe. It also reviews some of the supply reduction responses already developed at European level. Its findings are based on the latest data and analysis available from specialised European and international organisations, NGOs and scholars.

This publication is structured in a way that provides a condensed review of key issues relevant to understanding how cocaine reaches European markets. Background information on the chemistry and legal status of cocaine and crack cocaine, as well as key European figures, are also provided.

Just published: Harm reduction: evidence, impacts and challenges

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 23:00:00 GMT

The EMCDDA’s 10th scientific monograph, entitled Harm reduction: evidence, impacts and challenges provides a comprehensive overview of the harm reduction field. Part I of the monograph looks back at the emergence of harm reduction approaches and their diffusion, and explores the concept from different perspectives, including international organisations, academic researchers and drug users. Part II is dedicated to current evidence and impacts of harm reduction and illustrates how the concept has broadened to cover a wide range of behaviours and harms. Part III addresses the current challenges and innovations in the field. The core audience of the monograph comprises policymakers, healthcare professionals working with drug users, as well as the wider interested public.

Just published: Guidelines for collecting data on retail drug prices in Europe

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Prices are an essential element of the illicit drug market, from both a supply and demand perspective. They are an indicator of drug availability and are an important tool for understanding the workings of drug supply mechanisms. They may also be used to help target law enforcement resources and assist criminal justice agencies with decisions related to prosecution and sentencing (e.g. assets recovery).

The EMCDDA has been collecting information on retail drug prices via its Reitox focal points for the last 15 years. Although considerable progress has been made in this area, there is still variation in data collection in Europe. To address this issue, the EMCDDA has released these Guidelines for collecting data on retail drug prices in Europe: issues and challenges in its Manuals series.

The Manual raises awareness on specific issues related to collecting data on retail drug prices and offers practical suggestions. It addresses difficulties in obtaining a definition of 'retail' prices, and discusses the challenge of obtaining a representative sample of illicit, and therefore hidden, transactions. Suggestions are made for a minimum set of variables to be recorded for each observation. Targeted at all those involved in data collection on drug prices in Europe, the Manual reviews the main data-collection methods, current national practices and data-management issues.

Just published: Risk assessment of new psychoactive substances — operating guidelines

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 23:00:00 GMT

The principal aim of these guidelines is to put in place a sound methodological and procedural basis for carrying out each risk assessment, by using a semi-quantitative assessment procedure. This publication is a revision of the Guidelines for the risk assessment of new synthetic drugs (published in the same series, in 1999).

Just published: Work programme 2010

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The 2010 work programme is the first to fall under the EMCDDA’s new three-year strategy and work programme (2010–12). In terms of substantive technical activities, the three-year strategy aims to consolidate the core data sets held by the agency and enable more complex analysis of them. It also scales up and develops some new areas of strategic importance. This means that 2010 will necessarily be a formative and exploratory year during which the structures and approaches needed to deliver the objectives set out in the work programme are put in place.

Just published: Mephedrone

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In January 2010, increased evidence of the availability and use of mephedrone (4- methylmethcathinone) prompted the EMCDDA and Europol to launch a procedure for the production of a Joint Report. Pursuant to the findings of this report, the Council of the EU formally requested a risk assessment of the substance, which was submitted to control measures and criminal penalties throughout the European Union in December 2010.

Just published: Drugnet Europe 69

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the Agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: 2010 work programme and budget; EMCDDA and Europol step up information collection on mephedrone; upcoming Guidelines for collecting data on retail drug prices in Europe; European drug prevention quality standards; EMCDDA signs accord with Ukrainian Ministry of Health; new Czech penal code enters into force; EMCDDA Management Board – changes at the helm; new products and services.

Just published: EU agencies

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A number of decentralised agencies have been set up by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union to carry out specific legal, technical or scientific tasks within the European Union system. The majority work independently alongside the main EU institutions, adding value by helping to implement policy and promote the sharing of information and expertise in areas that impact on the lives of Europe’s 500 million citizens.

This brochure gives an overview of the missions of the EU agencies and describes our common objectives to strengthen the service we deliver to the EU institutions and ultimately to all EU citizens.

Just published: Conference proceedings: Identifying Europe's information needs for effective drug policy

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The conference Identifying Europe’s information needs for effective drug policy marked the 15th anniversary of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), and our activity of monitoring drugs and drug addiction in the European Union. It had several objectives: to better understand the current needs of policymakers, practitioners and researchers, to identify new developments in the drugs field and new results of drug-related research, and to provide input on the future work of the EMCDDA and its partners.

This publication summarises the presentations and discussions from the plenary and parallel sessions. It reflects the dynamism and commitment of those who study and respond to the drugs problem, and who made the conference such a productive, stimulating and successful event. The content of this publication will therefore be a vital tool for guiding the further development of our activities here in Lisbon.

Just published: Annual report 2009

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Just published: Drug offences: sentencing and other outcomes

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The sentences that offenders receive for drug law violations across the European Union are examined for the first time in this ‘Selected issue’. By analysing the most recent year’s statistics, this report attempts to answer the question: What is the most likely outcome for an offender after being stopped by police for a drug law offence of use or personal possession, or supply or trafficking? An online annex provides links to results by country (pdf).

A multilingual summary of the contents is available >>

Just published: Drugnet Europe 68

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the Agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: EMCDDA releases Annual report 2009; Selected issues 2009: Drug offences: sentencing and other outcomes and Polydrug use: patterns and responses; EMCDDA-CARDS project with the Western Balkans; Bridging the research gap in the field of illicit drugs in the EU.

Just published: Polydrug use: patterns and responses

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This 'Selected issue' looks at the concomitant or consecutive use of different licit and illicit drugs (polydrug use) among adolescents, young adults and problem drug users. Data from school and general population surveys, and on drug treatment entrants and drug-related deaths are analysed to describe the many forms and consequences of this widespread pattern of drug use. The responses to polydrug use in Europe are reviewed in the light of the scientific literature, with the aim of identifying the most effective interventions. An online annex provides links to additional tables and figures.

A multilingual summary of the contents is available >>

Just published: Understanding the 'Spice' phenomenon

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Smokable herbal mixtures under the brand name ‘Spice’ are known to have been sold on the Internet and in various specialised shops since at least 2006 and anecdotal reports suggest that those products may have been available as early as 2004. Although advertised as an ‘exotic incense blend which releases a rich aroma’ and ‘not for human consumption’, when smoked, Spice products have been reported by some users to have effects similar to those of cannabis.

Just published: Responding to drug driving in Europe

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:00:00 GMT

Many of the accidents and deaths that occur on European roads are caused by drivers whose performance is impaired by a psychoactive substance. Alcohol alone is estimated to account for up to 10 000 road deaths a year in the European Union, one quarter of all road deaths. No comparable figures are available for road accidents related to illicit drugs and psychoactive medicines, though these have been receiving increasing attention over the past decade.

Just published: Drugnet Europe 67

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 23:00:00 GMT

Drugnet Europe, the EMCDDA's quarterly newsletter, provides regular information on the Agency's activities to a broad readership.

In this issue: Brain research throws light on addiction; European action on drugs; Associations between HIV-prevention measures and HIV infection; globalisation and harm reduction; World drug report 2009; European Commission conference on drug-related research.

Just published: Methamphetamine: a European Union perspective in the global context

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:00:00 GMT

This publication is the first in a series dedicated to prevalent illicit synthetic stimulant drugs, also known as amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS). The ATS category is made up of two groups of substances.

This study focuses on the supply and use of methamphetamine in Europe, set in a global context. Methamphetamine is probably the most widely consumed synthetic stimulant in the world. In many countries across the globe it is reportedly the second most prevalent illicit drug after cannabis.

Just published: Strategy and work programme 2010–12

Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:00:00 GMT

This work programme ensures that the EMCDDA remains a key resource for Europe — providing high-quality information to underpin effective drug policies and serving as a catalyst for supporting and developing national information systems. The work programme builds on progress made in our existing strategy and is adapted to reflect the changing nature of the European drugs problem. It is both comprehensive and concrete.

The overall strategy is based on some core EMCDDA values. These are: to concentrate on the basic information tools necessary for describing the drugs problem and responses to it; to ensure our work delivers maximum value and is relevant to the needs of target audiences; to acknowledge that achievements result from partnership and effective working with others: and most fundamentally of all, that the agency’s worth lies in its impartiality, integrity and scientific rigour.

Just published: Addiction neurobiology: ethical and social implications

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:00:00 GMT

This report reviews developments in the neuroscience of addiction, explores how they might affect the way we view and treat drug problems, and considers the issues that they raise for drug policy in Europe. In language that is easily accessible, the report presents the complex brain processes involved in addition and the ethical implications inherent to current addiction research.

Just published: Neurobiological research on drugs: ethical and policy implications

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:00:00 GMT

This briefing paper for policymakers presents how new discoveries in neurobiology have the potential to transform our perception of drug addiction and its treatment, whilst also considering the ethical issues such treatment can raise. It balances an analysis of the latest developments in the field with a call for rigorous testing before implementation.

Just published: EMCDDA–Europol 2008 Annual Report

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 GMT

This report presents the results and outlines the key achievements and challenges faced by mechanism set up by the Council Decision in 2008.

In 2008, 13 new psychoactive substances were officially notified for the first time in the European Union through the Early-Warning System (EWS). The number of new substances notified in 2008 was comparable to the notifications in 2007. In 2008, the group of notified substances included two plants, but no medicinal products. Altogether, the group consisted predominantly of compounds with stimulant properties, whilst only two substances had pronounced hallucinogenic effects. Notably, fewer new substances were reported than in previous years from the better known chemical groups: phenethylamines (one); tryptamines (two) and piperazines (none). Six of the notified substances belonged to the cathinone derivatives group. Furthermore, one interesting from a chemical point of view was notified – pFBT, a ‘designer drug’ based on cocaine.

The report also highlights two important developments which took place during 2008. The first was the finalisation and adoption of a new ‘Guidelines for the risk assessment of new psychoactive substances’. Secondly, at the end of 2008 it was found that a ‘smoking mixture’, known and monitored by the EWS as ‘Spice’ was not the herbal product that it purported to be. Furthermore, the report includes a brief follow up of the two piperazine mCPP and BZP, and some challenges of the information exchange mechanism.

Just published: EMCDDA–Europol 2007 Annual Report

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:00:00 GMT

This report presents the results and outlines the key achievements and challenges faced by mechanism set up by the Council Decision in 2007.

In 2007, 15 new psychoactive substances were officially notified for the first time in the European Union through the Early-Warning System (EWS). The number of new substances notified in 2007 was higher than those notified in 2006; it was, however, comparable with the number of new substances reported in 2005. The group of notified substances was rather diverse and, beside new synthetic drugs per se, included medicinal products, a metabolite/derivative of a medicinal product and naturally occurring substances. They included phenethylamines, tryptamines and piperazines, as well as substances with a less common chemical make-up. The group was equally divided between substances that had pronounced hallucinogenic effects and those that exhibited predominantly stimulant properties.

Furthermore, this report describes in detail the active monitoring report of mCPP and the risk assessment of BZP. The lessons learnt from the process and outcome of the risk assessment exercise provide insight into the mechanism's advantages and limitations in producing sound scientific evidence for decision-making within rigorous deadlines and at reasonable costs.

Just published: EMCDDA–Europol 2006 Annual Report

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 23:00:00 GMT

This report presents the results and outlines the key achievements and challenges faced by mechanism set up by the Council Decision in 2007.

In 2006, 7 new psychoactive substances were officially notified for the first time in the European Union through the Early-Warning System (EWS). The number of new substances notified in 2006 was smaller than those notified in 2005. However, the chemical make-up of the reported substances was more diverse – some of them belonged to chemical groups never reported before through the EWS, such as indans and benzodifuranyls. Two of the seven reported substances had pronounced hallucinogenic effects, whereas all others exhibited predominantly stimulant effects. Of significance is the fact that of the seven new substances, three belonged to the piperazine family.

The report also details the active monitoring of mCPP and the launch of information collection for production the of a Joint Report on BZP. Furthermore, the report notes the challenges with respect to identifying comprehensive information sources and cost-effective mechanisms to allow a clear identification of the use of notified substances in the manufacture of medicinal products by the pharmaceutical industries. In addition, it presents issues of a more general nature related to the identification of new substances and analysis of known drugs.

Just published: BZP

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In December 2006, after examining the available information collected on BZP (1-benzylpiperazine), the EMCDDA and Europol decided to launch a procedure for the production of a Joint report. Pursuant to the findings of this report, the Council of the EU formally requested a risk assessment of the substance, which was submitted to control measures and criminal penalties throughout the European Union in March 2008.

Just published: EMCDDA–Europol 2005 Annual Report

Sun, 30 Apr 2006 23:00:00 GMT

The report outlines the results of the implementation of the Council Decision in 2005 and describes some issues arising from the initial experiences.

In 2005, 14 new psychoactive substances were officially notified for the first time through the information exchange mechanism/EWS set up by the Decision. All newly-notified substances belonged to three major chemical groups – phenethylamines, tryptamines and piperazines. Of these 14 substances, three were of particular note, methylone, DPIA and mCPP, as exhibiting characteristics that suggested that they were particularly appropriate for targeted monitoring and further vigilance.

The report raises important issues and implication for the implementation of the Council Decision, in relation to the case of mCPP, which was not recommended for formal risk assessment.

Just published: mCPP

Sat, 31 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

In August 2005, after examining the available information collected on mCPP (1-(3-chlorophenyl)piperazine), the EMCDDA and Europol decided to launch a procedure for the production of a Joint report. The report concluded that mCPP seemed unlikely to establish itself as a recreational drug in its own right and recommended that, in view of the fact that the substance was used in the manufacture of at least one medicinal product, no risk assessment should be carried out.

Following the recommendations of the report, in 2006 the Commission requested an active monitoring of the substance. The Active monitoring report presents further data on mCPP and the risks it poses. To access the Active monitoring report click here.

Just published: General report of activities 1997

Thu, 15 Jan 1998 00:00:00 GMT

The General report of activities is an annual publication providing a detailed progress report of the EMCDDA's activities over a 12-month period. Published every spring, it catalogues the Centre's achievements in each area of its annual work programme. The report is a useful information source for all those seeking comprehensive information on the Centre and its work.