2024-11-16 09:00:00
Two homeless drug addicts share a small piece of fentanyl in a Los Angeles alley, August 18, 2022. AP PHOTO/JAE C. HONG
Angela Me is Head of Research and Trend Analysis at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). In particular, she directs the world report on drugs published each year by this institution.
In 2022, nearly 300 million people will have used drugs, according to the latest annual report of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), or 20% more than ten years ago. How do you explain this increase, taking into account the increased resources implemented to combat trafficking and limit consumption?
The first reason is the increase in population. There are more of us on earth, and therefore more of us doing all kinds of things and using drugs. But this increase is also partly due to the increase in the percentage of people who have used drugs. Over the past ten years, most drugs have seen an increase in their consumption worldwide. Cocaine, in particular, the increase in use of which is particularly marked in Europe, but not only. Cannabis has also seen an increase in consumption over the last decade. Above all, we have also observed this year the increase in the use of stimulants, particularly methamphetamine, while for downers (drugs with sedative effects), the market is rather stable. In Europe, for example, but also in Southeast Asia, a whole generation of heroin users continues to age.
However, there is not really any research that establishes a cause and effect relationship leading to drug use. We have of course identified certain recurring factors, including mental health. The increase in mental health-related disorders, which is particularly significant during Covid, has links to drug consumption and dependence. Another factor is the availability of substances. This supply is always linked to demand, and one leads to the other, like a vicious circle.
This article is taken from “Special Issue Le Monde – Drug traffickers: their networks, their crimes, the response”November-December 2024, on sale at kiosks or online by going to on our store website.
This vicious circle you speak of particularly concerns cocaine. Recent figures, in terms of seizure and consumption, show that its diffusion is massive, within a market associated with sometimes uncontrollable violence, both in South America and in Europe. Do you consider this substance to be the priority for action at the international level?
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How can countries implement more effective strategies to address the increasing drug consumption rates?
**Interview with Angela Me, Head of Research and Trend Analysis at UNODC**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Angela. Your latest report indicates that nearly 300 million people used drugs in 2022, which is a staggering 20% increase over the past decade. What are the key factors contributing to this rise in drug use?
**Angela Me:** Thank you for having me. The significant increase in drug use can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the global population is growing, which naturally leads to a larger number of individuals who might engage in drug use. However, it’s also important to note that the percentage of users has increased as well. Over the last ten years, we’ve seen a rise in the consumption of most drugs, notably cocaine and cannabis.
**Editor:** That’s quite alarming. With the increased resources aimed at combating drug trafficking and usage, why do you think we’re still witnessing this trend?
**Angela Me:** It is indeed concerning. While resources and efforts to combat drug trafficking have expanded, the demand-side strategies have not always kept pace. There is a complex relationship between supply and demand, and despite the enhancements in law enforcement and prevention programs, societal factors like mental health issues, economic challenges, and social stigmas can contribute to increased drug use.
**Editor:** What specific trends have you observed in drug consumption over the past year?
**Angela Me:** This year, we’ve particularly noted an uptick in cocaine use, especially in Europe, which is significantly higher than in previous years. Additionally, cannabis consumption continues to rise, even as more regions move toward legalization and regulation. It’s crucial to acknowledge that these trends require tailored responses from policymakers to address the underlying issues.
**Editor:** Given these trends, what recommendations does the UNODC have for countries grappling with rising drug use incidents?
**Angela Me:** We advocate for a balanced approach — combining law enforcement with public health strategies. This includes expanding access to treatment and support for individuals struggling with addiction and enhancing educational campaigns about the risks associated with drug use. Addressing the root causes, such as socio-economic conditions and mental health, will be key to mitigating these trends.
**Editor:** Thank you, Angela. It sounds like a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive strategy.
**Angela Me:** Absolutely, it’s critical that we engage with communities, understand their needs, and implement solutions that are both effective and compassionate. Thank you for shedding light on this important topic.
