NCJ Number
201070
Date Published
2002
Length
60 pages
Annotation
This annual report presents an overview of the state of the European drug problem, specifically the European Union and Norway, through an examination of the existing drug situation and the responses to drug use.
Abstract
In an attempt to provide an overview of the European drug problem and contribute in the establishment of an evidence base for sound policymaking and strategic planning, this report offers insight into the existing drug situations, as well as the response to drug use in the European Union and Norway. The report is divided into two main chapters. The first chapter provides an overview of the situation of drug use and supply in the European Union and Norway, as well as highlighting recent developments and emerging trends. Seven areas are discussed in this chapter and include: drug use in the general population, problem drug use, treatment demand, drug-related infectious diseases, drug-related deaths, drug-related crime, and drug markets and availability. The second chapter presents an overview of developments in national and European Union drug policies and strategies. Responses to the drug problem are addressed in the areas of national strategies and legislation, demand reduction, prevention in schools, local settings and the community, prevention in recreational settings, prevention of infectious diseases, prevention of drug-related deaths, availability of treatment facilities, criminal justice response, and supply reduction. A third chapter highlights three specific issues relating to the drug problem in Europe: polydrug use, successful treatment, and drug use in prison.