Drugs and addictive behaviours in Saint-Martin and Saint-Barthélemy

Through observations of drug use in the French overseas departments and territories (project OUDOM), the OFDT presents new findings on patterns of psychoactive substance use, as well as on the local trafficking of these substances, in Saint-Martin and Saint-Barthélemy. In addition to users, the authors of the study interviewed representatives of the law-enforcement services and professionals from the health and social sector.

Identified points of sale and parallel distribution channels

Local trafficking in Saint-Martin, with its identified points of sale, is increasingly developing along the lines of organised crime groups, with connections at the international level. In Saint-Barthélemy, the same type of identified points of sale exists, but supply arrangements for wealthy tourists are more difficult to observe.

In both territories, cannabis use is relatively widespread, predominantly in herbal form rather than resin, with supply mainly through importation. Although both quality and prices vary, the latter are generally higher than those in mainland France.

Exceptionally low-priced cocaine

The opposite is true for cocaine, with prices on both islands significantly lower than those observed in mainland France, while the potency in active ingredients is higher. These two factors contribute to the popularity of this substance in Saint-Martin and Saint-Barthélemy, as do the “party culture” and ease of supply. Seasonal workers are a particularly affected group. The use of crack cocaine, on the other hand, only affects highly vulnerable groups.

In terms of treatment, the available services are particularly limited: there is only one specialised drug treatment centre (CSAPA), located in Saint-Martin.