An annual report to parliament revealed that almost 960,000 Italian youths aged 15-19, representing 39% of them, have experimented with illegal substances, signaling a worrying trend as drug abuse in Italy edges closer to pre-pandemic levels. The influence of powerful mafia groups involved in drug trafficking is evident, with 54,000 young individuals using cocaine and approximately 550,000 admitting to consuming cannabis-related products in 2023.
Government undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano expressed concerns about the rapid spread of illegal substances in Italy, likening it to a “pandemic” and highlighting a lack of awareness regarding the associated risks. The report indicated that the total value of illegal drugs purchased in Italy reached 16.4 billion euros in 2022, predominantly consisting of cocaine and cannabis derivatives, representing a concerning increase from the previous year.
Moreover, the government emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, a deadly drug gaining prominence in Italy. Justice Minister Carlo Nordio raised alarm over the emergence of fentanyl in the country, citing its devastating impact on public health in the United States.
In response to the surge in drug-related activities, Italian authorities intensified their efforts, leading to a 17% increase in drug seizures and over 27,700 reported drug offenses in 2023.