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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What are the primary social factors contributing to the rise in global drug use, as discussed in your interview with Angela Me?
**Interview with Angela Me, Head of Research and Trend Analysis at UNODC**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Angela. Your research plays a crucial role in highlighting global trends regarding drug use. According to the UNODC’s latest annual report, nearly 300 million people used drugs in 2022, marking a 20% increase over the last decade. What do you attribute this significant rise to?
**Angela Me:** Thank you for having me. The increase in drug use can be attributed to several interconnected factors. Firstly, there is the simple demographic change — the global population has grown, which naturally leads to a higher number of individuals using drugs. However, it’s not just about numbers. We’ve also seen a notable rise in the percentage of individuals who are trying drugs. For instance, cocaine consumption has surged in Europe, and cannabis use has also increased substantially across various regions over the past ten years.
**Editor:** That’s concerning to hear. Considering the increased resources and strategies that have been implemented to combat drug trafficking and limit consumption, why do you think these measures haven’t been more effective?
**Angela Me:** While there have been efforts to limit drug trafficking and reduce consumption, the demand and availability of drugs continue to outpace these strategies. The growing sophistication of drug trafficking networks plays a significant role as well. Use varies by region, and social factors, such as economic stress and mental health issues, can also drive individuals toward substance use. Moreover, there’s still a lot of stigma surrounding drug addiction that prevents people from seeking help.
**Editor:** You mentioned social factors as part of the equation. How important are policies aimed at harm reduction and support for those struggling with addiction in addressing these trends?
**Angela Me:** They are absolutely critical. Harm reduction policies, such as providing access to treatment, safe consumption spaces, and education about substance use, can make a significant difference. These measures help reduce the health risks associated with drug use and can also assist in connecting people to the support they need. Addressing the root causes of addiction, rather than just focusing on punitive approaches, is essential for creating long-term solutions.
**Editor:** Thank you, Angela. It’s clear that addressing drug use is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. We appreciate your insights and look forward to your continued work in this area.
**Angela Me:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we keep these conversations happening to work towards more effective solutions.
