Anketa mbi Përdorimin e Kanabisit në Shqipëri
Cannabis Surveys

Survey on Cannabis Use in Albania

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According to data from the European Drug Agency (EUDA) Survey1, conducted between May and July 2024, cannabis remains the most commonly used drug among Albanians.

The survey collected responses from over 66,000 participants aged 18 and older across 31 countries, including 4,442 drug users from the Western Balkans, specifically Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia.

Key Findings

  • Cannabis Use: In Albania, 56% of respondents reported using cannabis, which is slightly below the EU average of 59%, but higher than the 42% average in the Western Balkans.
  • Consumption Environment: The main places where Albanians consume cannabis are:
    • Outdoor spaces: 67%
    • Home (theirs or someone else’s): 61%
    • Parties or music festivals: 44%
  • Reasons for Use: The primary motivations for cannabis use among Albanians include:
    • Stress reduction and relaxation: 70%
    • Entertainment: 58%
    • Improving sleep: 43%
    • Managing depression: 41%
    • Spiritual reasons: 31%
    • Addiction: 24%
    • Socializing: 19%

Polysubstance Use 

The survey also highlighted Polysubstance use, where individuals consume multiple substances simultaneously. In Albania, 70% of respondents reported using cannabis with cigarettes or nicotine, while 46% combine cannabis with alcohol.

Sources of Cannabis

When asked where they obtain cannabis, 46% of Albanian users indicated they get it from friends or acquaintances, and 31% reported contacting sources directly via phone, email or messaging.

This survey provides valuable insights into the patterns and motivations behind cannabis use in Albania, reflecting broader trends observed in the European context2.

References:

  1. European Web Survey on Drugs 2024: top-level findings, Western Balkans https://www.euda.europa.eu/publications/data-factsheet/european-web-survey-drugs-2024-top-level-findings-western-balkans_en
  2. Exclusive: Albanians have the highest cocaine consumption among drug users in Europe https://monitor.al/en/ekskluzive-shqiptaret-kane-konsumin-me-te-larte-te-kokaines-ne-europe-nga-perdoruesit-e-drogave/