This update from the EU Early Warning System overviews the NPS situation in Europe in 2020-2021 and highlights emerging threats to support early warning, preparedness planning and response measures. In addition, it reflects on the changes and the lessons learned from 25 years of monitoring NPS in Europe.

Table of contents

Introduction
PART 1: The EU Early Warning System: 25 years of monitoring the appearance of NPS in Europe

• The first 10 years, 1997-2007
• Legal highs and research chemicals, 2008-2015
• Greater complexity and integration with the illicit market, 2016-2022

PART 2: Update on the work of the EU EWS in 2020-2021

• Number of NPS on the market
• Overview of law enforcement seizures
• Risk communications
• Synthetic cathinones
• Synthetic cannabinoids
• Opioids
• Benzodiazepines

PART 3: Lessons learned from 25 years of monitoring NPS in Europe

• Global markets create glocal threats
• Build, maintain and strengthen early warning systems
• Conclusion
• References
• Annexes