New drug representative Streeck: Legalization of cannabis in focus!

New drug representative Streeck: Legalization of cannabis in focus!

Bonn, Deutschland - Hendrik Streeck, the well-known virologist and CDU member, was appointed as the new federal government's new drug representative. This is done at the suggestion of Minister of Health Nina Warken, who emphasizes the need to promote exchange in health policy. Streeck, 47 years old and director of the Institute of Virology at the University of Bonn since 2019, follows Burkhard Blienert from the SPD. In the press, Streeck expressed that he would like to provide information and in particular want to protect children and adolescents from addiction and digital risks. A central topic of his term will be the legalization of cannabis, which has been allowed for adults since April 1, 2024 under certain conditions. Union and SPD have already announced an "open evaluation" of this legalization for autumn.

The legalization of cannabis represents an important step in German drug policy. The draft law not only regulates private consumption, but also self -cultivation and the establishment of cultivation associations. In addition, the Federal Government plans a further draft law on state -controlled production, sales and the submission of marijuana in specialty shops, which is to be presented by the end of the year. Critics of the law fear that it could not contain the black market and possibly increase consumption among young people.

social effects and challenges

cannabis consumption in Germany has increased in recent years despite the existing prohibition policy. According to information from a survey by the IFO Institute in 2023, 34 % of those surveyed approved the draft law on legalization, while 40 % were against it. The legalization aims to take into account health, social and fiscal aspects. For example, people over the age of 18 are allowed to have up to 25 grams of cannabis and grow up to three plants.

The health consequences of drug use are significant. In 2022, Germany recorded 1,990 drug -related deaths, mainly by substances such as heroin and morphine. In addition, around 62,000 people died of alcohol and more than 127,000 of tobacco in 2021. The federal government is aware that the consumption of cannabis, even if it is considered a relatively "soft" drug, can be harmful to health, especially young people. The average start of cannabis consumption is 19.4 years.

For more information about the appointment of Hendrik Streeck, please visit Dewezet . For more background to drug policy you can Visit.