In the draft opinion on fighting drug-trafficking led by CIVEX coordinator Matteo Bianchi members of the CoR called for adequate policing, lighting and surveillance systems to help counter what it described as a "proliferation of zones of lawlessness linked to the retail drug trade across European cities".

Mr Bianchi, member of Varese Local Assembly, emphasised that local and regional authorities need to be involved in order to increase the chances of prevention, reduce harm, and to break up criminal networks that recruit and exploit adolescents and other vulnerable individuals.

"We need to unite in the fight against drug trafficking and drug-related violence. Prevention should be prioritised through information and awareness-raising campaigns in schools. Offering sport, leisure, and cultural opportunities, particularly for vulnerable minors, can minimise the risk of their involvement in drug abuse and drug-related criminal activities", stressed the CoR rapporteur. 

While presenting his opinion alongside the Deputy Executive Director of Europol Andrei Lințǎ, Mr Bianchi insisted on the need to strengthen the resilience of logistics hubs such as maritime ports and airports, which are often "the main entry points for illicit substances that end up in our streets".