Скачать или смотреть IRAP: Brussels debate on the EU's approach to addictions

The illegal markets for drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and gambling are not just a health issue, but a serious security threat. This was the key message during our debate "Is the EU's approach to addictions based on evidence?" that we held last month in Brussels.

The illegal market for drugs, counterfeit tobacco, alcohol, gambling, and pharmaceuticals generates massive profits, and those profits often end up in the hands of organised crime and authoritarian regimes.

Former Polish President Aleksander Kwaśniewski addressed the attendees: "Overly repressive approaches don't work – instead of reducing crime, they strengthen the illegal market and push vulnerable people to the margins of society. It’s time to focus on evidence-based solutions that combine regulation, prevention, and support for those who need it. We call on the European Union for urgent reform."

Strong voices from across Europe were heard during the debate:
Professor Ethan Nadelmann (Harvard University)
Anya (Ganna) Dovbakh, Executive Director of the Eurasian Harm Reduction Association (EHRA)
Former Czech Minister of the Interior Ivan Langer
Michael Fanta, Chief Analyst at the Centre for Economic and Market Analysis
and other experts from international organisations and institutions

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