THL selected to develop models for EU preparedness and risk communication in drug-related crises
The European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) has selected THL’s research group to implement two projects related to preparedness and risk communication. The projects were launched in the beginning of 2026 and will run for one year.
Developing Preparedness for Drug-Related Emergencies
Around the world, several prolonged or shorter clusters of drug poisonings have occurred, resulting in numerous deaths and significant concern within surrounding societies. The aim of this project is to map such emergency situations and to examine preparedness for them, as well as the management of emergencies and the measures taken. Identified shortcomings in operational practices are also extremely valuable information for the project. Based on a literature review, a model will be developed for responding to different types of drug-related emergencies.
The project is led by Lead Expert Tuukka Tammi from Centre of Expertise in Behaviour and Communication (CUBE) together with Forensic toxicologist Pirkko Kriikku. Tammi considers it excellent that THL and Finland can serve as a trailblazer when preparing common EU models for preparedness for drug-related emergencies.
"THL’s strength lies in its ability to combine multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary substance use research with strong practical experience in preparedness and warning communication. This is exactly what European preparedness needs," Tammi states.
Developing a Risk Communication Model for Drug-Related Hazard Situations
In preventing drug-related emergencies and managing those that have already occurred, rapid and well-targeted communication plays a significant role. The purpose of this project is to develop a comprehensive understanding of current practices across EU countries regarding how information about drug-related hazard situations is communicated to experts, professionals working with people who use drugs, and people who use drugs themselves. Based on the collected information, a risk communication model will be developed.
"In addition to literature reviews, the project team’s own networks will be a significant source of information, as the aim is also to map practices that have not necessarily been published," Kriikku notes.
What is EUDA?
The general objective of the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) is to strengthen the EU’s capacity to address drug-related issues. EUDA anticipates emerging drug-related problems and their consequences, provides real-time alerts on new drug-related risks and health and security threats, supports the EU and its Member States in enhancing responses to drugs, and promotes EU-wide knowledge exchange and expertise as a foundation for evidence-based drug policy and interventions. EUDA’s mandate and funding were expanded in 2024, and the agency’s ambitious goal is to better support Member States in improving their preparedness to address drug-related challenges in the future.
More information
Tuukka Tammi
Chief Specialist
Tel. +358 29 524 8717
[email protected]
Pirkko Kriikku
Forensic toxicologist
Tel. +358 29 524 8054
[email protected]
