"It's high time we tackle the alcohol and tobacco dilemma," declares Germany's drug czar, Hendrik Streeck
Germany's Drugs Commissioner Identifies Persistent Issues with Alcohol and Tobacco
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link Germany's drug czar, Hendrik Streeck (CDU), has called out the nation for its troublesome relationship with alcohol and tobacco. "We've got an alcohol and tobacco conundrum in Germany. It's about bloody time we talked about it," Streeck said boldly to Welt (Monday edition).
Alcohol consumption is deeply intertwined with our culture, and society seems to be stubbornly resistant to cultural evolution, as Streeck remarks. He stands firm on his stance to eliminate the practice of "family drinking" in Germany. "As it stands, kids aged 14 and above can drink alcohol in the presence of parents. But just because the big cheeses are around doesn't make alcohol any less harmful," he stressed. Nixing this practice might aid in curbing alcohol consumption further.
Nevertheless, Streeck dismisses the idea of raising the general drinking age as a constructive conversation. He suggests focusing on prevention and education as the better route.
Sources: ntv.de, AFP
Note: As of the most recent and reliable sources reviewed, Streeck's proposed changes regarding the minimum drinking age or family drinking are either not discussed or not yet underway in 2025. German law allows minors aged 14 and above to drink alcohol with parents in a family setting. Public drinking is permitted and is widely accepted as long as it complies with moderation and public order.
The community policy should incorporate discussions and solutions for addressing Germany's alcohol and tobacco dilemma. To promote health-and-wellness and mental health, employment policies could be revised to encourage companies to implement programs that support employees in reducing their alcohol and tobacco use.
