German Drug Commissioner Streeck Warns Against Casual Alcohol Use and Calls for Enhanced Drug Monitoring

German drug commissioner Burkhard Streeck recently issued a strong warning about the health risks of alcohol, emphasizing that even small amounts are harmful. Speaking on November 7, 2025, Streeck described alcohol not as a harmless indulgence but as a cell poison capable of damaging multiple organs. While acknowledging alcohol's deep roots in German culture, he highlighted that it frequently lies at the center of health and social problems. Notably, Streeck opposed the practice of accompanied drinking for youth aged 14 and older, arguing that parental presence does not make alcohol consumption safer for adolescents. Additionally, Streeck rejected outright bans on alcohol but stressed the need for a nationwide early warning system for new dangerous drugs. Such a system would provide real-time information to police, emergency responders, and addiction support services, enhancing Germany's ability to respond effectively to emerging substance threats. These comments underline a shift towards more cautious health policies around alcohol and drug monitoring in Germany. [Source: 134164]