Foresight research is increasingly recognised as important in navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of drug policy. This innovative approach enables thinking, debating and shaping future trajectories. Foresight research includes a variety of methodologies, combining evidence-based analysis with creative and interactive approaches. In DRUG-PREP, national-level foresight was conducted in six European countries (Belgium, Czechia, Finland, Ireland, Netherlands, Portugal) aiming to explore the added value of conducting foresight at the national level and to build response capacity in the involved countries. Horizon scanning is an approach for collecting signals about current or imminent changes (events or trends) that are potential indications of new emerging issues.