EUDA Threat Assessment System (ETAS)

Introducing the EUDA Threat Assessment System (ETAS)

The EUDA health and security threat assessment system (ETAS) is a new capability designed to support European countries in assessing and responding to emerging drug-related threats. Our service is here to help Member States identify, assess and respond to serious health and security threats linked to drug markets, illicit substances and patterns of use that may impact the EU. 

ETAS works in partnership with national authorities and other EU agencies, offering expertise and practical support to address complex developments that require strategic insight and coordinated action. 

In addition, ETAS is a core component of the Agency’s wider preparedness framework, working in close coordination with the European Drug Alert System (EDAS), the Early Warning System (EWS) and the network of forensic and toxicological laboratories. Each service plays a distinct but complementary role, combining early warning, rapid alerts, and structured assessments. This integrated framework ensures that Member States and EU institutions are equipped to respond effectively to both immediate risks and emerging challenges. This integrated approach strengthens Europe’s capacity for timely intervention, strategic planning, and resilience in a dynamic drug landscape.

Responding to Europe’s changing drug landscape

Europe’s drug landscape is evolving rapidly, with new substances and shifting markets posing risks to public health, safety and social cohesion. Threats may arise from new drugs, changing patterns of use, rising harms, expanding trafficking networks or broader global developments. 

ETAS is designed to respond to the needs of Member States. Countries can request our help when facing new or escalating threats, and we also proactively monitor for signals that may require assessment. 

By systematically assessing these developments, we provide timely, evidence-based intelligence to guide action, strengthen preparedness and protect health and security in the EU. 

Where relevant, and with the agreement of the European Commission, the system also allows for the assessment of drug-related threats emerging outside the European Union that may affect health, social matters, safety or security within the EU.

How the assessment process works

EUDA threat assessments are initiated in response to signals identified through EUDA’s monitoring, alerts and early warning systems, or following a request from the European Commission or an EU Member State. 

We offer a range of assessment methods to suit different situations: 

• Rapid assessments for urgent or emerging issues (typically delivered in 2–6 weeks) 
• Comprehensive assessments for complex, multi-country threats (3–6 months) 
• Exploratory studies for novel or unclear phenomena (6–9 months) 
• Anticipatory assessments using the FAST methodology for anticipation and preparedness.  

When a signal is detected or a request is received, it is appraised using structured criteria to determine severity, impact, geographical spread and urgency. This guides the choice of assessment method and ensures a proportionate, tailored assessment. 

Assessments combine data from national and European monitoring systems, law enforcement, public health and early warning networks. Expert input is gathered through consultations, expert meetings and focus groups, ensuring that findings reflect frontline realities and national specificities. 

Delivering actionable results

The final report sets out key findings and strategic health and security response options, supporting early preparedness and mitigation, multisectoral coordination and informed policy decisions at both national and EU levels. The EUDA continues to monitor the situation following the assessment and, where necessary, follows up and supports Member States and the European Commission in the implementation of recommended response options. 

How to engage with the EUDA Threat Assessment System

The system is designed to support EU decision-makers, national authorities and professionals working in public health, security and law enforcement. Any EU Member State or the European Commission can request a threat assessment from EUDA. 

Our assessments help inform national planning, resource allocation and coordination across sectors.

Requesting a threat assessment

The European Commission and EU Member States, via their national Management Board member or head of the national focal point, may request a health and security threat assessment from EUDA.

Requests must concern threats that are cross-border or affect multiple EU countries and are made through a dedicated process designed to ensure transparency, collaboration and timely support. After initial contact, EUDA provides guidance and a standard form to capture key information about the emerging threat. Each request is carefully appraised against clear criteria. Assessments are conducted in partnership with national and European authorities, ensuring evidence-based recommendations to protect public health and security across the EU.   

Current activities and focus areas 

In late 2024, the EUDA launched its first health and security threat assessment under the new mandate, focusing on highly potent synthetic opioids in the Baltic region. This assessment was carried out in close collaboration with Member States, bringing together evidence and expertise to develop actionable options for response at both national and EU level. 

EUDA’s health and security threat assessment system is currently investigating the threat posed by highly potent synthetic opioids in Europe, as well as the increasing availability and harms associated with crack cocaine. These cases illustrate both the urgency and complexity of the assessments the EUDA is undertaking.