Within the framework of the Pompidou Group’s Mediterranean cooperation network (MedNET), a study visit took place from 11 to 13 February on the Italian institutional set up dealing with New Psychoactive Substances (NPS).

The three-day study visit to Rome allowed a delegation of representatives from national public health and law enforcement institutions from seven Southern-MedNET countries, namely Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine* and Tunisia, to explore the Italian National Early Warning System on Drugs (NEWS-D), a vital mechanism aimed at addressing the fast-evolving drug market and the rise of NPS in Italy, as well as visit all public institutions involved.

The study visit was hosted by the Department for Antidrug Policies of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers of Italy. It allowed to foster collaboration across the Mediterranean region by exchanging knowledge and experiences.

More information:

• Pompidou Group’s Mediterranean network for co-operation on drugs and addictions (MedNET)
• The Italian National Early Warning System on Drugs (NEWS-D)

*Designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the individual positions of Council of Europe member States on this issue.