12 Minutes With - The Europe Interview Belgian Drugs Chief Ine Van Wymersch | Narco-states and an EU opioid problem?
Dec 6, 2025
Ine Van Wymersch, Belgium's first national drugs commissioner, tackles the pressing issue of drug-related violence and the potential threat of Belgium becoming a narco-state. She discusses rising concerns over synthetic opioids in vapes, highlighting the dangers they pose to youth. Ine emphasizes the need for international cooperation to disrupt cocaine trafficking and calls out the risks that encrypted apps pose for law enforcement. With a background in juvenile justice, she advocates for mental health investment and proactive strategies to prevent youth gang recruitment.
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National Coordination Signals Urgency
- The government created a national drugs commissioner to coordinate a national and international strategy against organised crime.
- Ine Van Wymersch says this shows high awareness and urgency to tackle the problem beyond local policing.
Hold Streets First, Build Social Solutions
- Take a 'hold and build' approach: first restore visible control, then invest in root causes like education and jobs.
- Use short-term security measures while simultaneously funding long-term social policies, Van Wymersch recommends.
Money Is The Criminal Heart
- Belgium is not currently a narco-state but faces a clear risk if the criminal business model and corruption go unchecked.
- Van Wymersch emphasises that following the money and tackling criminal assets is central to prevention.