UN: Drug consumption, variety surge globally amid tech use by traffickers

The United Nations reports a significant global increase in both the consumption and variety of illicit drugs over the past few decades. Drug trafficking organizations are increasingly leveraging technological innovations to expand their reach, target new audiences, and bolster their multi-billion-dollar trade.

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The global drug problem: evidence-based solutions in health, justice and human rights.

The UN's International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observance on June 26 highlighted the evolving landscape of illegal substances. The traditional dominance of heroin in global opioid markets is facing challenges from shifts in supply. Cocaine production, seizures, and use are on the rise, while synthetic drugs are expanding due to low manufacturing costs and reduced detection risks.

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The century-long dominance of heroin in illicit global opioid markets is increasingly being challenged by changes in the illegal supply of opioids. Production, seizures and use of cocaine continue to rise, while low costs of manufacture and reduced risks of detection of synthetic drugs are contributing to their expansion in illicit drug markets.

Illicit drug markets demonstrate constant adaptation to changing circumstances. Organized crime groups continue to exploit weaknesses in governance and regulatory frameworks. In response, the UN noted that the global community, national and local governments, civil society, and individuals are collaborating to implement innovative strategies aimed at reducing both the demand for and supply of illicit drugs, while also mitigating associated threats.

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Drug trafficking groups are increasingly using technological innovations to target new audiences, expand access to drugs, and strengthen their multi-billion-dollar trade.