Global drug use reached a record high in 2024, with an estimated 331 million people using drugs worldwide, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) World Drug Report 2026.
The report shows that 6.2% of the world’s population aged 15 to 64 used drugs in 2024, up from 5.2% a decade ago. Cannabis remained the most commonly used drug, followed by opioids, amphetamines, cocaine and ecstasy. UNODC also warned that increasingly powerful synthetic drugs are rapidly changing illegal drug markets and creating new health risks.
The agency expressed concern over the growing spread of synthetic opioids and methamphetamine, as well as the rising number of new psychoactive substances being detected globally. The report noted that young people, women, refugees and displaced persons are among the groups most vulnerable to the harmful effects of drug use and addiction.
UNODC says tackling the growing challenge will require stronger healthcare systems, prevention programmes and international cooperation. As drug markets become more complex and interconnected, experts warn that a coordinated global response is essential to reduce harm and protect vulnerable communities.
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