Germany's new federal drug commissioner, Hendrik Streeck, discusses in the SPIEGEL-Talk how cocaine consumption has become almost normal in some milieus. The former virologist addresses coke taxis, lessons from the pandemic, and medical care for the elderly.
Hendrik Streeck, known as a rebel among virologists, has been appointed federal drug commissioner. In the SPIEGEL-Talk, moderated by Markus Feldenkirchen, he addresses drug issues. "In some milieus, it has almost become normal to consume cocaine," Streeck states.
He examines phenomena like coke taxis, where drug deliveries are arranged. Streeck draws lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, during which he emerged as an unconventional expert. Another topic is medical care: Streeck questions whether 98-year-olds still need new hip joints to allocate resources effectively.
The talk highlights Streeck's new political role, emphasizing evidence-based approaches. No specific measures are mentioned, but his statements prompt discussion on prevention and societal norms.