The number of drug-related deaths in Germany has reached a record high, with 2,227 fatalities reported in 2023, according to the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA). This marks a significant increase from the previous year’s total of 1,990 deaths and is more than double the number recorded a decade ago. Despite variations in reporting methods across different federal states, these figures highlight a worrying trend with no immediate signs of improvement.
Burkhard Blienert, the German government’s drug commissioner, presented these alarming statistics in Berlin, expressing concerns that the actual number of drug-related deaths might be even higher due to insufficient toxicological examinations and autopsies. Blienert described the situation as “very serious.”
Changes in drug consumption patterns have been noted in recent years. While heroin remains a major cause of death, with 712 fatalities in 2023, its role has slightly diminished. In contrast, the consumption of other substances, such as crack, has increased. Mixed drug use led to 1,479 deaths, a 34% rise from the previous year. The number of deaths related to crack and cocaine use also surged, from 507 to 610. Methamphetamine and opioid substitution drugs, like methadone, have also contributed to the rising death toll.
The highest number of drug-related deaths was recorded in North Rhine-Westphalia, with 872 cases, up from 702 in 2022. The state’s large size and urban structure contribute to its significant share of the statistics. Berlin reported 271 deaths, while Bavaria had 257. The steepest percentage increase occurred in Saxony-Anhalt, where deaths rose from 19 to 53.
Daniel Deimel, an addiction researcher at the Nuremberg Institute of Technology, emphasized the difficulty in interpreting these figures due to inconsistent autopsy rates across federal states. He suggested that the true number of drug-related deaths is likely higher than reported.
Several factors contribute to the grim outlook. The influx of cocaine into Germany has risen sharply, with 33 tons seized at Hamburg port in 2023 compared to 13 tons the previous year. Crack, derived from cocaine, has proliferated, leading to severe social and health consequences for users. Additionally, the global trend toward more potent and cheaper opioids, such as fentanyl, poses a significant threat. Fentanyl is much stronger than heroin and even small quantities can be lethal.
The state of addiction services in Germany is concerning. Christina Rummel, managing director of the German Centre for Addiction Issues, highlighted the financial struggles faced by publicly funded addiction counseling centers, with three-quarters unable to cover their costs this year. This has led to reduced services and the elimination of some programs. The lack of supervised consumption rooms, where users can take drugs under medical supervision, further exacerbates the problem.
Blienert called for concrete steps in prevention and local social services, as well as targeted support for crack and methamphetamine users. He stressed the importance of early and consistent assistance for vulnerable youth and the need for specific interventions for drug-addicted individuals.
Deimel advocated for a drastic shift in drug policy, suggesting a model similar to Portugal’s, where even hard drugs are decriminalized up to a certain amount, and users are offered help rather than punishment. He warned that without significant changes in Germany’s approach, the number of drug-related deaths will continue to rise.
