The number of drug users registered for medical monitoring has increased in the Republic of Moldova. Of the more than 12,000 registered users, 545 were new patients in 2024, while the figure rose to 704 in 2025, according to data from the Republican Narcology Dispensary.
In 2025, 765 people committed drug-related offences for the first time, while 250 of those who committed such offences were neither working nor studying.
The annual number of criminal cases related to drugs has also increased in recent years. While there were 994 cases in 2023, the number reached 1,387 in 2025.
“There has been an increase in the share of drug use cases identified by specialist narcologists following requests for a consultative opinion from the Narcology Commission — 59.9% — and by law enforcement agencies, particularly the police — 34.9%. Only 1.4% of cases were identified by primary healthcare specialists. Self-referrals have declined significantly over time, reaching 3.8%. This is also reflected in low demand for treatment, driven by insufficient knowledge in the field, limited trust in the public treatment and prevention system, and deep-rooted social stigma,” the authorities said.
Government representatives argue that the emergence of new synthetic drugs and the development of online distribution methods pose additional risks, particularly for children and adolescents. According to them, “interventions are fragmented: the police combat trafficking, doctors treat intoxications and addictions, schools try to prevent drug use, and social services intervene when families have already been affected.”
On October 21, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the “National Strategy on Drugs and Addictions for 2026–2032.” The document includes measures to prevent drug use, improve access to treatment and recovery, combat trafficking, and rapidly identify new dangerous substances.
The strategy will also include measures addressing risks associated with alcohol, tobacco, gambling, and problematic use of the digital environment, which can lead to addiction.
By 2032, the authorities aim to reduce the number of children and young people who start using drugs, prevent intoxications and deaths, and improve access to treatment.