"Upgrading cooperation in the fight against drugs-related crime" and "reducing the repercussions of drugs use": these are the two main objectives of the four-year anti-drugs policy (2009-2012) adopted by the EU Commission today. The figures presented by deputy president Jacques Barrot, commissioner for justice, freedom and security, are impressive. "It is estimated that in the Union the total number of regular or occasional drugs users is 70 million for cannabis, at least 12 million for cocaine, 9.5 million for ecstasy and 11 millions for amphetamines". "At least half a million" citizens aged between 16 and 65 "officially" receive a replacement treatment for drugs use. People who have "serious addiction problems" amount to 2 million, while 7,500 died of overdose every year. Barrot points out the need to "raise the awareness of the vulnerable groups, especially young people, about drugs-related risks". "Because of the European anti-drugs alliance, the European citizens will be called to play a proactive role, for instance by informing about the successful measures that have been taken so far". (continued)” “
