On the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Council of Europe International Co-operation Group on Drugs and Addictions (Pompidou Group) reaffirms its commitment to addressing drug-related challenges and addictions through balanced, evidence-based and human rights-based policies.

Longstanding challenges, in particular related to illicit drug trafficking as well as drug and other forms of addictions in general, continue to affect not only individuals but also communities across member States of the Pompidou Group. Evolving drug markets, use of digital technologies, diversion and misuse of precursors, materials and equipment required for the illicit production of drugs, changing patterns of consumption, and other modern challenges require comprehensive, coordinated, innovative and forward-looking responses.

As reflected in its Work Programme for 2026–2029, the Pompidou Group remains committed to

• advancing human rights in drug and addiction policies;
• supporting comprehensive responses to substance use and addictive behaviours such as those related to the digital world;
• addressing the intersection between mental health and substance use disorders;
• reinforcing regional and international co-operation;
• strengthening the role of civil society and people with lived and living experience;
• responding to emerging challenges, in particular by addressing drug markets and criminal networks.

Through these priorities, the Pompidou Group continues to provide a balanced approach that safeguards public security, protects public health and promotes human rights and gender equality.

Key milestones for the Group in 2026 include the development of new instruments and standards advancing human rights in drug and addiction policies. A notable example is the work of the Drafting Committee on Human Rights and Drug Policies (DH-PDA), mandated by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe to prepare a recommendation on placing human rights at the core of drug and addiction policies. Another significant development is the recently adopted Pompidou Group Guidelines on Organised Crime linked to Drug Trafficking (OC-DT), grounded in the case law of the European Court of Human Rights.  

On this International Day, the Pompidou Group remains committed to supporting its member States and to working in close partnership with other regional and international organisations and civil society actors in developing effective, humane and future-oriented drug and addiction policies and responses. Through co-operation, innovation and shared responsibility, we can better address both persisting and emerging challenges related to drugs and addictions, through prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery, and supply reduction. As such, the Pompidou Group contributes to healthier, safer and more resilient societies.