The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) released a new analysis Thursday on the European drug market, with a focus on cannabis. Among many highlights, the report concludes that marijuana products are becoming increasingly potent and diverse, while partnerships between criminal organizations are bringing new security risks in Europe.
“Cannabis continues to divide public opinion and remains the subject of European and international debate,” EMCDDA director Alexis Goosdeel stated. “Today’s analysis looks at the elements needed to support evidence-based policymaking and preparedness in this complex domain, where the scope of cannabis policies is widening and where products are becoming increasingly potent and diverse. Our new findings come at a time when decision-makers must address a vast array of challenges posed by Europe's largest illicit drug market, from the heavy carbon footprint left by cannabis cultivation to health harms, corruption, and violence on our streets.”
Key Takeaways
- The …