Joaquim Cardoso MSc.
Chief Research and Strategy Officer (CRSO),
Chief Editor and Senior Advisor
November 17, 2023
One page summary
What is the message?
This article explores the stark contrast between the devastating impact of fentanyl in the United States and its relatively limited presence in Europe.
The historical resilience of European nations against the fentanyl epidemic is attributed to factors such as universal healthcare, opioid-substitution treatment schemes, and resistance to widespread prescription of painkillers.
What are the key points?
Fentanyl’s Impact in America vs. Europe:
- Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, has caused immense harm in America, claiming around 70,000 lives annually.
- In Europe, the fentanyl-related death toll is significantly lower, with fewer than 200 reported cases each year, reflecting a notable policy success.
Origins of the Fentanyl Gap:
- The article traces the origins of the fentanyl epidemic in America to unregulated opioid prescriptions, facilitated by unscrupulous pharmaceutical practices.
- Europe, with its universal medical care, resisted the rampant prescription of opioids, curbing the potential for widespread addiction.
Potential Threats to Europe:
- Europe faces potential challenges as the heroin supply, traditionally derived from poppies in Afghanistan, is expected to dwindle due to Taliban-enforced production cuts.
- Drug gangs may respond by introducing fentanyl into the heroin supply or promoting synthetic drugs as an alternative.
Mexican Cartels and Fentanyl:
- Europol warns of collaboration between Mexican cartels and European criminal networks to expand the market for drugs, including fentanyl.
- The article highlights the ease with which fentanyl can be manufactured and shipped compared to other illicit drugs.
Canada as a Cautionary Tale:
- Despite having state-funded healthcare, Canada has succumbed to the fentanyl crisis, emphasizing the potential vulnerability of European nations.
Statistics
- Fentanyl-related deaths in America: Approximately 70,000 annually.
- Fentanyl-related deaths in Europe: Fewer than 200 reported cases each year.
- In 2015, the United States saw 227 million prescriptions for opioids annually.
Examples
- The shortage of heroin due to Taliban-enforced production cuts may lead to drug gangs introducing fentanyl into the heroin supply.
- Europol warns of Mexican cartels cooperating with European criminal networks to expand the market for drugs, including fentanyl.
Conclusion
Europe’s ability to mitigate the impact of fentanyl stands as a testament to the efficacy of universal healthcare and proactive policy measures.
However, the looming threats of heroin shortages, potential collaboration between Mexican cartels and European criminal networks, and the example of Canada falling prey to fentanyl emphasize the need for continued vigilance and robust strategies to prevent a surge in fentanyl-related issues.
The article underscores the importance of learning from the U.S. experience to keep the fentanyl genie in the bottle.
DEEP DIVE
This summary was written based on the article “Fentanyl kills thousands every year in America. Will Europe be next?”, published by The Economist on November 16, 2023.
To read the original publication, click here.
