Lisbon's Drug Crisis: British Tourists Alarmed by Open-Air Drug Market

Lisbon's Drug Problem: A Growing Concern for Tourists

Portugal's beautiful weather and affordable wine have long attracted over two million British tourists each year. However, many visitors to Lisbon have recently expressed concerns about a troubling drug scene in the city.

Drug Activity on the Rise

Lisbon's streets are increasingly described as a hotbed for drug activity, raising alarms about public safety. The city's Mayor, Carlos Moedas, has acknowledged the need for additional police resources to address the situation, which includes open drug consumption and dealing occurring in broad daylight. This rising visibility of drug use is leading to insecurity and violence in certain neighborhoods.

Local Residents' Concerns

Residents have reported a surge in muggings, attempted break-ins, and aggressive behaviors, attributing these issues to the lack of police presence. Earlier this year, businesses and community organizations protested against these developments, fearing that the growing drug market could deter lucrative tourism.

Health Risks and Public Safety

Portuguese media reports highlight the accumulation of syringes and other drug-related materials in public spaces, posing health risks to both users and the general public. Mayor Moedas has called for more municipal police, stating that the city only received 25 officers when they had requested 200. He emphasized the need for increased police presence to combat the ongoing drug crisis, which has worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Government Response

Portugal decriminalized all drugs in 2001, focusing on treatment programs for addiction. While drug possession remains illegal, it is treated as an administrative violation. Currently, there is only one assisted drug consumption room in Lisbon, and plans for another have yet to materialize. Moedas has suggested the establishment of safe consumption rooms to help mitigate the issue.

Historical Context

João Goulão, President of the Institute for Addictive Behaviours and Dependencies, noted that the Casal Ventoso neighborhood was once dubbed "the biggest drug supermarket in Europe" in the 1990s, and is now seeing a resurgence of drug sales and open consumption. He stressed the importance of providing treatment opportunities for those seeking help.

Lisbon Mayor Moedas acknowledged the city's growing drug problem in July when speaking to journalists (Image: Getty)

Residents complained of syringes being left in public spaces (Image: Getty)