Scaling prevention systems through workforce training: the European prevention curriculum

Background

The European Prevention Curriculum (EUPC)[1], led by the European Union Drugs Agency, is a structured training programme designed to strengthen the drug use prevention workforce and support the implementation of evidence-based interventions. Delivered across public health systems, academia, and national agencies in Europe and beyond, it addresses persistent gaps in prevention capacity linked to the lack of standardised training. The programme integrates face-to-face and online learning with Training of Trainers (ToT) models and is supported by an expanding trainer network, enabling adaptation across diverse contexts.

Objectives

To analyse the development, implementation, and scaling of the EUPC from 2021 onwards, focusing on: (1) geographic expansion, (2) workforce reach, (3) the role of a Virtual Community of Practice in supporting learning and exchange, and (4) governance structures enabling sustainability.

Results

More than 180 EUPC trainings have reached close to 3,000 participants across over 65 countries. The programme includes over 170 trainers engaged in EUDA-supported activities, supported by national and master trainer networks. Materials are available in approximately 20 languages, facilitating cultural adaptation. Implementation is well received, with over 90% of participants reporting application of learning in practice. However, variability in national coordination and institutional support remains, prompting further development of governance models.

Conclusions

The EUPC provides a scalable and transferable model for strengthening prevention systems. Combining standardised content with flexible delivery and governance is critical for sustainability. Future work should prioritise evaluation of long-term outcomes and system-level impact.

[1] EUDA. The European Prevention Curriculum (EUPC)| The European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA). 2026. Accessed April 27, 2026. https://www.euda.europa.eu/best-practice/european-prevention-curriculum-eupc_en

Key messages

• A standardised prevention curriculum, led by EUDA, can be scaled across countries to strengthen workforce capacity and support evidence-based systems.

• Governance structures and trainer networks are key to sustaining and scaling prevention training across diverse national contexts.