THE ILLICIT TRAFFICKING OF NARCOTIC SUBSTANCES AS A TRANSNATIONAL SECURITY THREAT

Abstract

The article examines the illegal distribution of narcotic substances as a complex transnational threat to security. The analysis focuses on the legal and conceptual foundations of drug control, the international and European regulatory framework, the main dimensions of drug trafficking as a security threat, and contemporary trends in production, trafficking and use. Particular attention is paid to new psychoactive substances, precursors, synthetic opioids, digital distribution channels, maritime routes and the changing structure of organized criminal networks. The role of the national administrative capacity, interinstitutional coordination and international cooperation is emphasized. The analysis shows that effective counteraction cannot be reduced to police and criminal-law measures and requires an integrated, proactive and risk-oriented approach combining law enforcement, customs, judicial, health, social and preventive measures.