European Agency Cautions About Increasing Violence from Drug Gangs

Surveillance of Illegal Drugs in Europe: A Challenging Farewell

As his tenure comes to a close, Alexis Goosdeel, a Belgian clinician overseeing the European Union’s drug dispensary since early 2016, reflects on a troubling increase in human trafficking associated with cocaine and other stimulants. This surge is leading to heightened violence, even in regions typically seen as safe.

Goosdeel has witnessed a notable shift in drug-related activities, moving from southern Europe to northern ports, with Antwerp now serving as a major entry point for cocaine. This has unfortunately escalated gang violence, prompting gunfights near key European government locations.

During a video call from Lisbon, where his agency operates, he expressed concern about the implications for cities like Brussels, stating, “This is the first time in the country’s history that we see guns and violence in the heart of Brussels.” It’s striking, really, when you consider it’s just a little over a mile from the European Parliament.

Goosdeel discussed the globalization of drug gangs, noting how they are interconnected with groups from both the Western Balkans and South American countries. He pointed out a troubling trend: gangs are increasingly leveraging social media to recruit young people.

“We still don’t fully understand the root causes behind this change in behavior among teenagers,” he said, highlighting that some even go as far as sharing videos of their activities online.

The recently released European Union Drug Dispatch Annual Report indicates that 2023 saw record cocaine seizures for the seventh consecutive year, with 419 tons confiscated. Belgium topped the list with 123 tons, followed by Spain and the Netherlands.

Among the findings, the report mentioned Spain’s significant seizure of 13 tons of cocaine concealed in bananas from Ecuador, underscoring how cartels are adapting their transportation methods.

Goosdeel cautions policymakers across the 27 EU capitals to brace for increased violence, while also raising alarms about public health risks. He notes that while some opioid addictions can be managed, the situation with methamphetamine is far more complex.

He warned, “The rising usage suggests that in four or five years, we’ll probably see a greater need for treatment options, and the pharmacological standards may not be sufficient.” Investments in effective treatment approaches are essential, he emphasizes, as there aren’t any magic solutions to combat this substantial addiction problem.

In addition, Goosdeel pointed out that Europe remains the primary producer and exporter of ecstasy. The agency’s early warning system has identified around 1,000 new synthetic drugs over 27 years, with over half detected in just the past decade, which he describes as a “totally different world.”

“Drugs are pervasive, even those produced here in Europe. There’s a potential for everything to be misused,” he remarked.

Magnus Brunner, a member of the EU domestic affairs and migration committee, has committed to intensifying efforts against drug cartels. “We’re tackling organized crime by enhancing strategies to cut off funding and seize illegal profits from trafficking,” Brunner stated.

Goosdeel suggests that while it’s crucial to confront drug-related violence, solutions should focus more on supporting users rather than punitive measures, which some critics liken to the failed “war on drugs” in the US. The European approach is grounded in public health responses aimed at assisting individuals dealing with addiction.