A new report by the United Nations, released on Thursday, reveals that the number of global drug users rose to 316 million in 2023 — representing 6 per cent of the world population aged between 15 and 64.
The 2025 World Drug Report by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), based on 2023 data, highlights a continuing rise in drug consumption worldwide. This marks an increase from 5.2 per cent in 2013.
Cannabis remains the most widely used drug, with 244 million users, followed by opioids (61 million), amphetamines (30.7 million), cocaine (25 million), and ecstasy (21 million).
“This edition of the World Drug Report shows that organised drug trafficking groups continue to adapt, exploit global crises, and target vulnerable populations,” said UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly.
She stressed the need for comprehensive action: “We must invest in prevention and address the root causes of the drug trade at every point of the illicit supply chain. And we must strengthen responses by leveraging technology, enhancing cross-border cooperation, providing alternative livelihoods, and taking judicial action against the key actors driving these networks.”
The report notes that among all drugs, the cocaine market is expanding the fastest. In 2023, global cocaine production reached a record high of 3,708 tons — more than a 33% year-on-year increase.
The number of cocaine users also jumped significantly, rising from 17 million in 2013 to 25 million in 2023.
UN experts warn that the boom in cocaine use is fueling not only a surge in drug-related deaths but also intensifying violence among rival criminal groups. This trend is particularly noticeable in Western and Central Europe, where cocaine seizures have now surpassed those in North America for several years.
