UN Report: Rise in Global Drug Use and New Synthetic Opioids
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has highlighted a worrying increase in global drug use and the emergence of powerful new synthetic opioids. These lab-made substances act on the brain similarly to natural opioids like morphine and codeine, providing pain relief.
According to the latest World Drug Report 2024, the number of drug users reached 292 million in 2022, marking a 20% rise over the past decade. Cannabis remains the most widely used drug with 228 million users, followed by opioids (60 million), amphetamines (30 million), cocaine (23 million), and ecstasy (20 million).
The report also points out the environmental damage caused by drug production and trafficking, such as the harmful effects of spraying illegal substances on crops. It notes that only one in 11 people with drug use disorders receive treatment, and the situation is worse for women, with only one in 18 receiving help compared to one in seven men.
Organized crime groups involved in drug trafficking are also expanding into other illegal activities like financial fraud, unlawful resource exploitation, and wildlife trafficking.
Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India, emphasized the need for balanced efforts that uphold health and human rights to help those struggling with addiction.
The report also mentioned a 74% drop in global opium production in 2023, following a 95% decrease in Afghanistan’s opium production and a 36% increase in Myanmar. This could lead to changes in heroin purity and a higher demand for opiate treatment services in affected countries.
