Policy

The laws, regulations, strategies, and governance frameworks that guide how governments and institutions address substance use, substance use disorders, and illicit drug trafficking. These policies shape coordinated responses across prevention, treatment, recovery support, public health, regulatory control, and law enforcement. Effective substance use policies aim to reduce health and social harms, ensure access to prevention and treatment services, regulate controlled substances, and disrupt illicit drug markets. They are typically informed by scientific evidence, public health principles, and cross-sector collaboration to promote safer and healthier communities. 

NordAN 2026: Public health, policy and prevention in changing times

Event Date
 - 
Faroe Islands
Denmark

NordAN 2026 brings together policymakers, researchers, and civil society actors from across the Nordic and Baltic region to discuss current developments in alcohol policy and public health. At a time when long-standing policy frameworks are being challenged, the conference provides a space to exchange experiences, compare national developments, and reflect on future directions.

Alcohol Law & Policy Conference 2026

Event Date
 - 
Minneapolis
United States

Each year, the Center brings together some of the best minds in the country – including state alcohol regulators, public health leaders, state attorneys general, state legislators, educators, and industry members – to discuss and debate current alcohol issues and challenges. The conference has become the leading national forum for alcohol policy education and networking.

National Symposium on Police-led Drug Diversion

Event Date
 - 
Sheffield
United Kingdom

This full-day national event is hosted jointly by the University of Sheffield (Centre for Criminological Research), the National Police Chiefs Council, and the College of Policing. 

It will advance participants' knowledge of Police-led Drug Diversion, and of the results of the Cabinet Office-funded evaluation of PDD across 13 police forces.

2026 National Drug Control Strategy - The White House

Guide
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The 2026 National Drug Control Strategy outlines a comprehensive roadmap to reduce illicit drug use and protect communities across the United States. It prioritizes stopping the flow of drugs and precursor chemicals at all borders through...
US-National-Drug-Strategy-2026-cover

Playing legislative catch-up: Drug law reform in the Pacific

Website
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Drug trafficking in the Pacific is rapidly expanding, shifting countries from transit points to consumer and production markets. However, many national laws remain outdated, as they were designed for earlier challenges like cannabis and are...

Global Organized Crime Index 2025 - Europe Overview

Report
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The 2025 Global Organized Crime Index shows that overall crime levels in Europe remain stable, and the region continues to rank among the least affected globally. However, this stability hides a more complex reality, with criminal markets...
Global Organized Crime Index 2025

Policy Brief: Scam Centres – Combating a Global Phenomenon

Report
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Short Summary Scam centres are a fast-growing global organized crime threat, generating over $1 trillion in losses in 2024. They use technology and psychological manipulation to target victims worldwide, supported by global criminal...

Integrating Addiction Medicine with Treatment Courts Course

Event Date
 - 
Online
United States

This 4-hour course is designed for medical providers practicing addiction medicine who interact with treatment courts and the justice system. Clinicians will explore the complexities of treating justice-involved individuals and apply practical strategies through case-based learning to enhance collaboration, advocate for evidence-based care, and improve coordination with community resources. 

Prescription drugs regulations

Event Date
 - 
Online

Adfam organises forum events for practitioners and professionals with an interest in supporting families affected by substance use or gambling.

At each forum we focus on a unique topic relating to families and substance use, inviting a guest speaker with expertise in that topic, followed by a Q&A and wider discussion.