Criminal drug gangs pose an increasing threat to European security, exacerbated by the influx of South American cocaine, according to the EU Drugs Agency. Alexis Goosdeel, the agency’s outgoing director, highlighted that due to challenges such as economic crises, terrorism, and the pandemic, European policymakers have focused less on the expanding influence of these criminal organizations.
Goosdeel emphasized that Europe is now confronting a “hyper-availability” of illegal drugs, alongside efforts from traffickers to corrupt officials across various sectors. He described the current situation as only the “tip of the iceberg,” warning of a multidimensional threat that includes both violence and corruption within institutions. He noted stark incidents in several regions, including Spain’s concerns about lost control over trafficking, Belgium’s risk of becoming a “narco-state,” and violence against anti-drug activists in France.
The recent rise in cocaine production and trafficking, primarily from Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia, has led to stable prices and increased purity levels. This has intensified competition among drug organizations. Goosdeel pointed out a troubling trend of “crime as a service,” showcasing a network that includes recruited young assassins and contractors setting up large-scale drug operations, often facilitated via social media.
In response, the European Commission has outlined a new action plan addressing drug trafficking as a significant threat that necessitates a coordinated effort at the EU level. While some ports are implementing stricter protocols to curb trafficking, challenges remain as organized crime adapts to these measures. Goosdeel concluded by urging governments to address the underlying social issues contributing to drug demand and to invest in harm reduction and treatment efforts to combat substance abuse effectively.
Why this story matters: The growing influence of drug gangs threatens public safety and institutional integrity across Europe.
Key takeaway: European authorities must adopt a multi-faceted approach to combat drug trafficking, addressing both enforcement and societal issues.
Opposing viewpoint: Some believe that increased law enforcement and punitive measures alone can effectively address the drug crisis without focusing on socio-economic root causes.
