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Germany’s New Drug Commissioner Unveils Science-Driven Strategy to Avert Opioid Surge and Youth Addictions

His warning over internet-facilitated opioid imports, along with figures on risky media use among youths, underpins his evidence-based approach

Hendrik Streeck
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Hendrick Streeck

Overview

  • Streeck plans a multi-agency opioid prevention package combining strong police action, public education campaigns and enhanced addiction treatment services
  • He cites DAK data showing 1.3 million adolescents with risky media habits and will push for digital safeguards, counseling and media-literacy programs
  • He will coordinate prevention measures with Health Minister Nina Warken and Education Minister Karin Prien to integrate efforts across security, health and schooling systems
  • In line with the coalition agreement, he will oversee a scientific evaluation of last year’s cannabis legalization by autumn 2025 and incorporate concerns from parents, police, educators and medical experts
  • Noting that almost ten million Germans live with addictive disorders, he rejects blanket bans or price increases in favor of data-driven policies that temper emotional debate