The World Drug Report 2025 is the latest global reference from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, providing an overview of drug markets, trends, and policy developments. It provides data on drug market patterns and trends, as well as key findings from the analysis of such patterns and trends. It also features thematic chapters on contemporary issues related to drugs, as well as special points of interest that provide a framework for the findings and their policy implications.
Main takeaways and policy implications (extract from the section, Special Points of Interest)
- A new era of global instability is bringing unprecedented challenges to the drug problem.
- Tackling drug trafficking requires a deep understanding of the aims and structures of criminal groups.
- Socioeconomic vulnerability is expanding worldwide and increasing exposure to the drug problem.
- Cooperation across sectors, agencies and countries is key to protecting the most vulnerable.
- Public health is at risk with the impact of drug use, the lingering impact of COVID-19 on mental health and the fiscal squeeze.
- Mainstream health systems must be supported by financial and political commitments to reducing the impact of drug use disorders.
Recommended citation: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. (2025) World Drug Report 2025. Vienna and New York: United Nations.