Recent developments show that drug manufacturing and market evolution as well as the spread of digital related addictions entail unprecedented risks and harms for society and individuals. The rapid emergence of synthetic drugs--often produced by criminal networks--introduces unknown health risks and places additional strain on healthcare systems. The spread of addictions generating algorithms in internet-based applications have led to a new wave of behaviour induced dependencies. These trends are frequently exploited by commercial and criminal interests, and organised crime, often targeting vulnerable individuals drawing them into criminal activities. States are constantly faced with the need to have a multi-faceted approach in the context of biomedicine, health, drugs and addiction policies. The Pompidou Group’s theory of change is already built upon a comprehensive four-pillar framework: prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery, and supply reduction. That is, in ensuring that its policies remain firmly grounded in respecting human rights and rule of law principles and builds on preparedness to address public health and security challenges related to drugs and addictions.

This approach acknowledges the nature of drug policies, emphasising not only the harm reduction and treatment of addictions but also aims at proactive prevention strategies and through a responsible and well-orchestrated supply control. This is expected to lead to tangible improvements in national policies, including enhanced legal safeguards, reduced harm, increased access to treatment and more effective supply control mechanisms in place. By integrating these elements, the Pompidou Group aims to uphold human dignity while addressing the complex challenges posed by substance use and addiction[s].