This report provides an analysis of the latest data on the drug situation and responses to it across the European Union, Norway and Turkey. It is supported by other, online information resources, including our Statistical Bulletin, containing source data. The EDR package also includes 30 Country Drug Reports, which provide an overview of the current situation for all countries participating in the EU drug information network.

This year’s report arrives at a critical time for reflection on drug policy developments, especially given the international debate on the appropriate follow-up to the United Nations special session on the world drug problem in 2016. Next year will see the final evaluation of the current EU drugs strategy (2013-20). During this period, Europe has witnessed some dramatic changes in the challenges the drugs area presents, including the appearance of more non-controlled substances. We have also seen significant changes in the drug market and drug use; and our understanding of what constitutes effective interventions has increased. A market dominated by plant-based substances imported into Europe has evolved into one where synthetic drugs and production within Europe have grown in importance. Globalisation and technological advances have reshaped the strategic issues that European policymakers need to consider. We are proud of the EMCDDA’s international reputation for keeping pace with these changes and providing the information necessary to help support the cooperation and coordination that the EU drug strategy envisages.