The event was jointly organized by Naif Arab University for Security Sciences and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) as part of international and regional efforts to confront the growing threats associated with the spread of synthetic drugs and the expansion of trafficking networks. In her opening remarks, Richardson said drug trafficking is no longer a criminal issue confined within national borders, but has become a direct threat to global peace, security, and development. She explained that organized crime networks in the region and beyond increasingly intersect with other illicit economies, exploiting fragile environments and fueling corruption and instability. Richardson stressed that addressing this phenomenon requires stronger regional cooperation and intensified data sharing, alongside enhanced prevention efforts, which she described as essential components in protecting communities and strengthening their resilience against organized crime. Synthetic drug markets have expanded significantly in several parts of the world in recent years, as criminal networks develop new production and distribution methods, prompting international and regional institutions to intensify coordination to combat the phenomenon and mitigate its security and social impacts.

Source: Libya Observer March 11, 2026 20:15 UTC