The new Action Plan on Drugs 2026-2031 outlines the City of Ghent's commitment to an integrated and decisive approach to drug-related issues, with a particular focus on prevention, harm reduction, and monitoring. A key initiative is the development of a dedicated drug monitor, in collaboration with Sciensano, to better map the drug problem and enable quicker responses to emerging signals and trends. This tool is expected to be operational by 2027.
The plan is structured around five pillars: prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, recovery-oriented care, and enforcement, encompassing a total of 47 action points. In addition to monitoring, the plan introduces measures to tackle drug trafficking, drug-related crime, and nuisance. This includes leveraging administrative enforcement alongside judicial prosecution to prevent criminal organizations from establishing themselves in the city. Tools such as closing public establishments where dealing occurs and targeted approaches to nuisance hotspots are part of this strategy.
Prevention remains a crucial aspect, especially within the nightlife scene. The City of Ghent, in partnership with the Nightlife Council, will explore awareness campaigns and support clubs, operators, and organizers with their drug policies, including collaborations with external partners like Safe ’n Sound and training for bar staff.
Harm reduction efforts are also being enhanced. Mobile syringe patrols will continue, five additional needle containers will be deployed on top of the existing sixteen, and a new mobile addiction care worker will be appointed.
The action plan, coordinated by the city's drug coordinator, was developed with expertise from numerous partners, including the police, the public prosecutor's office, care and welfare organizations, scientific institutions, and people with lived experience. The draft will be discussed in the committee meeting on Monday, October 19, 2026. An expert group will then develop and implement the actions in practice.
