German Government Warns of Emerging Drug Crisis Amid Rising Youth Consumption
German officials warn of a rising drug crisis marked by increased cocaine and synthetic drug use, especially among youth, and call for stronger prevention and law enforcement measures.
- • German Interior Minister and Federal Drug Commissioner warn of an emerging drug crisis.
- • Use of cocaine, crack, and synthetic drugs is increasing, particularly among young people.
- • Drug deaths in Germany totaled 2,137 in 2024, with a 14% rise among those under 30.
- • Calls for enhanced international cooperation and prevention measures are being made.
- • Partial cannabis legalization criticized for societal harm by Interior Minister Dobrindt.
Key details
The German federal government, represented by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) and Federal Drug Commissioner Hendrik Streeck (CDU), has issued warnings about a looming drug crisis in Germany. They highlighted a significant increase in the availability and consumption of cocaine, crack, and synthetic drugs, with particularly alarming rises seen among younger demographics. According to Streeck, these substances are now easier to obtain than ever, and drug use has transitioned from a fringe problem to one impacting the heart of society.
Recent data from the Federal Criminal Police Office's drug annual report revealed there were 2,137 drug-related deaths in Germany in 2024, marking a 4% decline compared to the previous year. However, the number of drug fatalities among individuals under 30 years old rose sharply by 14%, underscoring concerns about youth exposure to these substances. Additionally, while overall drug offenses decreased by one-third relative to 2023, this drop has been attributed to the partial legalization of cannabis.
Streeck emphasized the urgent need for strengthened international cooperation among law enforcement agencies and expanded prevention and support services to avert this developing crisis. Dobrindt criticized the earlier cannabis partial legalization law, describing it as socially harmful, and pledged intensified action against drug-related crime, which he identified as the main area of organized crime in Germany.
A notable surge in synthetic drug use was observed, particularly a doubling in consumption of Ecstasy/MDMA, alongside increases in methamphetamine and amphetamine use. These patterns reflect a worrying trend requiring robust government and societal responses to safeguard public health and security.