Officially launched through a virtual ministerial meeting on July 7, 2023, the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats is a U.S.-led international initiative aimed at combating the threats posed by synthetic drugs. The Coalition is designed to produce actions and results in a short period, accelerating the global response to the rise in synthetic drug threats. The Coalition convenes through working groups and sub-working groups on a monthly basis.

Following the establishment of this cooperation, the Office for Combating Drugs of the Government of the Republic of Serbia participated in the July meeting of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats, held on July 24, 2024. Representing the Office, Ms. Maja Savić attended the meeting. This significant event brought together experts, policymakers, and law enforcement representatives from around the world to discuss and develop strategies to combat the growing threat of synthetic drugs. The Office is specifically involved in Sub-Working Group 3.1 (Preventing Drug Use, Strengthening and Expanding Evidence-Based Prevention Activities), Sub-Working Group 3.2 (Engaging People with Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders), and Sub-Working Group 3.3 (Addressing Populations in Contact with the Criminal Justice System, including Alternatives to Incarceration).

Key outcomes of the meeting include the review of international policies and frameworks, data exchange and good practices, current challenges, and the generation of ideas for potential program alternatives. Additionally, international prevention tools and systems were reviewed, evidence-based interventions in all six domains of prevention (community, environment, family, media, school, and workplace) were examined, and opportunities for new initiatives related to substance use prevention were discussed.

Through continuous participation in international coalitions and sub-working groups, the Office for Combating Drugs remains committed to implementing the insights and ideas gained from such meetings to enhance Serbia’s efforts in combating synthetic drug threats.