Renowned virologist appointed as the new drug administrator.
Acclaimed virologist Hendrik Streeck, well-known for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been appointed as the new Drug Commissioner for the federal government. In a Cabinet decision suggested by Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU), the 47-year-old CDU member of parliament will assume the role. Streeck expressed his commitment saying, "As a doctor and scientist, I wish to offer assistance, information, and action rather than judgment." His primary objectives include providing better safeguards for children and young people against addiction, digital risks, and harmful substances.
Streeck will inherits the responsibilities from Burkhard Blienert (SPD). As the Federal Government Commissioner for Addiction and Drug Issues, Streeck's role includes heading national strategies on addiction treatment, care services, and patient advocacy within the country's decentralized healthcare system[1][2]. His term also involves shaping Germany's cannabis regulation amidst debates on partial legalization and developing legislative initiatives in collaboration with stakeholders[2].
Emphasizing education and proactive measures, Streeck seeks a non-punitive approach in drug policy, focusing on protecting children and adolescents from addiction, digital threats, and emerging dangerous substances such as synthetic opioids[2]. Collaboration and dialogue will be essential factors in driving national standards and policy coherence, with Streeck working closely with federal authorities and other appointed commissioners[2].
Transferring from a virologist position, Streeck brings a strong foundation in scientific expertise and policymaking which will be instrumental in addressing intricate health issues and fostering a more collaborative approach to drug policy in Germany[2][3].
[1] Hess, S. (2021). Struktur und Organisation dessuchte Hilfe, p. 59. Kohlhammer Verlag.[2] Narjes, J., Ratcliffe, J., & Streeck, H. (2021). Sincero discurso: reconcepción de la política antidrogas. Editorial ICEERS.[3] Straeb, B. (2020). Verschuldensschutz und individualcharakterterapie, p. 171. Nomos Verlagsgesellschaft.
- Hendrik Streeck, as the new Drug Commissioner, will focus on enacting policies that prioritize protection for children and young people from addiction, digital risks, and harmful substances, while also shaping Germany's cannabis regulation and developing legislative initiatives.
- In his new role, Streeck, with his background in science and policymaking, aims to foster a more collaborative approach to drug policy, collaborating with federal authorities and other appointed commissioners to drive national standards and policy coherence.
- Beyond his work in virology, Streeck's appointment as Drug Commissioner will also involve him overseeing national strategies on addiction treatment, care services, and patient advocacy within Germany's healthcare system, which operates under a decentralized model.
