Context
While early signals of new developments in illicit drug markets are typically local and dispersed in nature, many emerging drug trends are regional and have their roots in global disruptors, for example production market shocks or international precursor developments. A national optic may miss these big picture influences whilst a regional, in this case European view, allows both a joining of the dots alongside a recognition of synergies and policy responses. A particular example is offered here using the new synthetic opioid (NSO) market, where local signals, international intelligence from satellite surveillance and input from frontline services and civil society all contribute to an enhanced understanding and options for preparedness activities.

Approach and methods
In July 2024, the European Union Drug Agency (EUDA) was launched, with a new regulation, mandate and discrete set of supplementary services, replacing the EMCDDA. The EUDA is in many respects a boundary organisation, sitting at the intersection of research, policy and practice. One of the strengths of the Agency is the development of analyses drawing on the triangulation of diverse datasets and leveraging multiple information networks, with dissemination tailored to a range of target audiences.

Results and analysis
This presentation will briefly introduce key new European level services including the EU threat assessment mechanism and the European drug alert system, which build on established tools including the EU drug monitor, the EU Early warning system. The focus will be to demonstrate their role in enhancing understanding of new trends in European opioid markets, in particular increases in drug-related deaths in the Baltic region linked to the spread of highly potent NSOs including nitazines and carfentanil. Importantly the new EUDA services are aiming to further elevate the work of the Agency from a focus on surveillance to active support for public health responses.