JUSTICE/HEALTH : COUNCIL APPROVES NEW ACTION PLAN ON DRUGS.

On 8 December, the European Commission's Action plan on drugs 2009-2012' sailed through the Council of Ministers, which endorsed its strategy based on both supply and demand.

"Drug policy, like any other policy, requires not only sustained cooperation between the authorities at every level but also the support of European citizens, who must be mobilised and prepared to play an active role in this struggle," commented Commissioner Jacques Barrot (justice, freedom and security). He had presented his plan on 18 September.

To raise the profile of EU policy, the Commission will launch, in June 2009, a European Alliance on Drugs. It will work to raise awareness and involve citizens more closely, especially young people, administrations, public services and volunteer organisations. Barrot also wishes to "enlist" singers and film stars, who are particularly "appreciated by young people". "These figures can include former drug addicts who have changed their ways," he added, answering a question about the widespread use of drugs - particularly cocaine - in the world of show business.

The task ahead is huge. For the most serious cases of drug dependence (for all drugs), the EU has no fewer than two million problematic users'. There are around 7,500 deaths from drug overdoses every year. More generally, the total number of people, out of 500 million Europeans who use - or have used - drugs, is estimated at 70...