Streeck warns: drug addiction affects all of society!

Streeck warns: drug addiction affects all of society!

In Germany, it is much more than just the consumption of drugs - it is a topic that affects us all. Hendrik Streeck, the new federal drug representative, draws aware of the serious challenges that drug policy brings with it. Almost ten million people in Germany are fighting a dependency. And that's not all, because many other people, including children, parents, friends and colleagues, also suffer in their environment. The debate about how we deal with drugs and addiction is anything but a border issue, such as Radio Herford reports.

Streeck calls for a change of perspective: "We do not have to look at drugs from the perspective of the custom or on the right, but from that of health." Prevention is not only a political priority, but also a moral bid. The focus should be the focus and the weakest in society in particular. With a worrying increase in the drug dead - in 2023 there were 2,227, twice as many as ten years ago - it is clear that there is an urgent need for action. The number for 2024 will soon be published and could map the situation even more dramatic.

where to go with the drugs?

Part of the solution could be in the controlled delivery of cannabis to combat the black market and increase health protection. According to the annual report in 2023, cannabis remains the most frequently consumed illegal drug in Germany. Surprising 4.5 million adults regularly consume cannabis, and around 40 % of outpatient and 30 % of inpatient treatments are related to cannabis and cannabinoid consumption. The Federal Government emphasizes the need to expand low-threshold offers to reverse this trend.

Streeck also warns to combat illegal drug trade, especially the increasing cocaine trade, which is becoming increasingly cheaper in Europe. In addition, the problems with cracks intensify, which has both health and social consequences. In this tense situation, the role of the darknet is becoming increasingly important - here are illegal trade rooms that urgently need to regulate.

prevention as a key

The importance of prevention offers increases again according to the restrictions of corona apandemy. Streeck also relies on international cooperation, because the drug problem does not stop at national borders. Comprehensive approaches are required to combat this epidemic efficiently.