Danish authorities are raising alarms about the increasing prevalence of illegal opioids, such as tramadol and fentanyl, in the country, with a significant spike in seizures and hospital admissions related to opioid use. Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard is advocating for harsher penalties for those involved in the sale and distribution of these drugs, increasing penalties by up to 400 percent in some cases.

The rise in opioid-related issues follows a global trend, particularly in the United States, where opioids caused over 80,000 overdose deaths between 2021 and 2022. To combat this trend in Denmark, the government is prioritizing efforts to curb the sale of illegal opioids, especially during its EU Presidency.

Recent data from the Danish Customs Agency reveals a dramatic increase in the number of seized pills containing psychoactive substances, including opioids. In 2020, 257,935 units were seized; by 2023, this number had jumped to 960,366 units, and in 2024, it reached 1,411,239 units.

Customs officials have intercepted numerous courier transports attempting to smuggle opioids and other controlled substances into Denmark, primarily at Copenhagen Airport and border crossings. The Danish Medicines Agency has also identified and reported several Danish-language websites involved in illegal medicine sales, including opioids.

Studies indicate that about four percent of young Danes between 15 and 19 have used opioids, and treatment centers are seeing a rise in young people seeking help for opioid abuse. Hospital admissions for opioid poisoning among those aged 16 to 20 have increased by 200 percent between 2018 and 2023.

There is a growing awareness among young people about the dangers of opioids, with opioids now being considered “the most dangerous and extreme substance” in party environments. The government has launched an action plan to address the issue, acknowledging the ease with which opioids can be obtained through kiosks and social media.