Drug-related deaths among young Germans rise sharply
Drug-related deaths among young people in Germany have risen significantly, with official figures showing a sharp increase in fatalities involving illegal substances such as heroin and crack.
According to data from the Federal Criminal Police Office, 528 people under the age of 30 died from drug use in 2025, an increase of more than 50% compared with 2021.
Among those under 20, the number of deaths nearly doubled over the same period, rising from 54 in 2021 to 106 last year.
Overall, 2,150 people died from the use of illegal drugs in Germany in 2025.
Commissioner calls for stronger prevention
Federal Drug Commissioner Hendrik Streeck described the figures as alarming, warning that nearly one in four drug-related deaths now involves people under the age of 30.
He said four out of five victims had used multiple substances, often combining prescription medicines, alcohol and illegal drugs without recognising the potentially fatal consequences.
Streeck called for stronger prevention efforts, earlier intervention and better support systems to reach people at risk before addiction becomes life-threatening.
Source:AA
