Joint Statement from the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction and the European Union Drugs Agency

Alexis Goosdeel, Executive Director of the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA), and Dr. Alexander Caudarella, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA), are pleased to announce the signing of a Working Arrangement at the ‘Issues of Substance’ conference between their respective organizations. This milestone builds on the productive collaboration initiated during the EUDA’s first official visit to Canada in 2024 and marks a new chapter in advancing evidence-informed, people-centered approaches to substance use and addiction.

The European Union and Canada share many similarities: diverse jurisdictions, communities, languages and cultures. Both face a rapidly evolving drug landscape characterised by the emergence of new substances, an increase in accidental overdoses and the growing influence of drug-related crime. These complex challenges demand creativity, innovation and that we learn from each other to deliver progress.

The Working Arrangement formalises the commitment of the EUDA and CCSA to exchange expertise, data and best practices in areas such as policy analysis, data, prevention, harm reduction, treatment, recovery and community safety. It reinforces a shared determination to anticipate emerging threats, respond effectively to crises, and strengthen the resilience and health of our communities.

Through ongoing collaboration, the EUDA and CCSA aim to promote comprehensive, whole-of-government and whole-of-community approaches to substance use health — approaches grounded in human rights, science and partnership with people with lived and living experience. This partnership recognises that the challenges we face are global in nature and that sharing across borders is essential to saving lives and improving well-being.

As we move forward under this Working Arrangement, both organisations reaffirm their dedication to supporting the people and communities most affected by substance use harms. Together, the EUDA and CCSA will continue to act today, while anticipating tomorrow, to ensure that evidence, empathy and cooperation guide every step of our shared work.