In a significant move to curb the rise of drug trafficking through European ports, the European Union (EU) unveiled the European Ports Alliance last week. The initiative, launched in Antwerp by the European Commission in cooperation with the Belgian Presidency, aims to strengthen cooperation and information sharing between law enforcement agencies, customs officials and private maritime terminal operators.
EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson emphasized the need to combat criminal groups working together to transport large drug shipments across the Atlantic and distribute them in Europe. Johansson stressed the importance of preventing criminal infiltration of ports through bribery, corruption and threats.
In 2023, there will be a significant increase in drug seizures in several European countries, exploiting security vulnerabilities in ports. The European Ports Alliance aims to build on successful anti-trafficking measures implemented in key ports such as Rotterdam, Antwerp and Hamburg. Its primary objective is to replicate these measures across Europe, thereby strengthening the resilience of logistics hubs against the threat of organized crime.
The Alliance aims to mobilize the customs community by enhancing risk assessments and targeted controls, based on a comprehensive understanding of existing gaps and vulnerabilities. The joint effort aims to prevent criminal groups from exploiting internal security weaknesses and to protect European ports from the illicit drug trade.
