Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime 91d ago

Synthetic drugs are reshaping the global drug market. Faster to produce, easier to move, and harder to regulate. This video unpacks the 2025 Global Organized Crime Index findings and expert insights on how fentanyl, methamphetamine, “kush,” and other synthetics are proliferating worldwide. From overdoses in North America’s to West Africa’s state-of-emergency responses, we explore why traditional, geography-based drug policies no longer fit today’s reality; and what cross-sector, cross-border solutions could work. Chapters 00:00 - Synthetic drugs everywhere 00:31 - The numbers behind the surge 01:34 - Why synthetics changed the game 02:17 - Profit, efficiency, and portability 02:49 - Online markets and micro-shipments 03:36 - North America’s fentanyl and meth crisis 04:32 - Are overdose deaths declining? 05:15 - Precursors and dual-use challenges 06:02 - Mexico’s equipment-focused resolution 07:00 - U.S. resolution on illicit supply chains 07:47 - West Africa’s rising wave 09:14 – A comprehensive response agenda 11:38 – Mounting harms 11:52 – Rethinking drug policy 12:55 – Closing & resources Learn more: ocindex.net.