Italy and France have confirmed an international summit on preventing drug abuse and supporting recovery, scheduled for 23 October 2026 at the San Patrignano recovery community. Announced by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and French President Emmanuel Macron, the gathering will include officials, ministers, and international delegates to address strategies to reduce drug use and aid recovery, especially among young people. The event will expand on the commitments made by the European Coalition Against Addictions, a partnership co-founded by the two nations to confront the rising addiction crisis in Europe. The summit will offer an opportunity to share best practices in prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and social reintegration, ensuring that efforts are tailored to individual needs. Organizers highlight the necessity of global collaboration to manage a challenge that requires shared responsibility and coordinated action.
European Coalition Against Addictions
The European Coalition Against Addictions (ECAD) was launched on 2 October 2025 during the European Political Community summit, co-founded by Italy and France. Thirty-five countries have since joined the coalition, pledging to address drug trafficking and promote prevention and recovery efforts. Member states are working to align national strategies with the coalition’s goals, including public awareness, early intervention, and better access to treatment. ECAD also aims to strengthen international ties to disrupt drug cartels and limit the spread of illegal substances, particularly to vulnerable groups. A key focus is increasing investment in research and data to guide effective, evidence-based responses to addiction. The coalition emphasizes that a comprehensive and coordinated approach is necessary to achieve lasting results.
The coalition’s next major event will take place in 2026 in San Patrignano, where a document outlining future actions and objectives will be drafted. This will expand on the coalition’s second meeting in Yerevan, where a new joint declaration was signed. At that meeting, participants agreed on a shared plan for tackling addiction, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in recovery efforts. The 2026 summit is expected to refine these priorities, creating a unified approach that can be applied at the local and national levels. A final document will outline the coalition’s strategies and commitments for the years ahead. The summit aims to foster collaboration by bringing together diverse stakeholders, ensuring that those affected by addiction are included in the conversation and their perspectives valued.
San Patrignano's Model for Recovery
San Patrignano, located near Rimini, was selected as the summit venue due to its long-standing success in addiction recovery. Since 1978, the facility has supported over 26,000 individuals through a non-pharmacological program combining rehabilitation, education, and communal living. The model uses structured routines, peer support, and skill development to help individuals rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society. Studies from the universities of Bologna, Urbino, and Pavia indicate that over 72% of those who complete the program are considered 'fully recovered.' These outcomes position San Patrignano as a key example of how holistic, long-term care can effectively address addiction. The program’s success is attributed to its emphasis on personal responsibility, self-discipline, and a robust support system.
President Sergio Mattarella visited San Patrignano in June 2026, underscoring its importance in the national effort. The community currently supports around 1,000 people and provides over 20 training sectors and 50 activities. During the visit, Mattarella met with residents and heard about their progress. He highlighted the value of the community’s work in helping people overcome addiction, calling it a vital asset to the country. The visit also emphasized the ongoing concern about rising youth drug use, a central focus of the 2026 summit. Undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano, responsible for organizing the event, has already extended invitations to 47 delegations, including heads of state and international organizations. Mantovano praised the coalition’s dedication to addressing addiction and acknowledged the contributions of communities like San Patrignano.
Mantovano cited troubling data: nearly one in four 15–19-year-olds in Italy reported drug use in the past year. He also recognized the tireless efforts of those working in recovery and treatment communities, including San Patrignano, noting that they 'sometimes put their own safety at risk' to assist those in need. Mantovano called for greater recognition and support for the professionals, volunteers, and organizations that are essential in helping people overcome addiction.