Berlin's struggle with drug-related fatalities: Steering clear of a crisis

Berlin's struggle with drug-related fatalities: Steering clear of a crisis

In the heart of Berlin, the district of Neukölln is taking proactive steps to address the growing issue of drug-related deaths. The district is working diligently to create the necessary framework conditions to implement a range of measures aimed at reducing harm and preventing deaths from drug use.

One of the key initiatives is the "Give me 5" campaign, a harm reduction effort focused on drug users. The campaign, spearheaded by drug aid provider Vista Berlin, proposes five measures to reduce deaths from drug use by 2024. These measures include an early warning system, drug checking, consumption rooms, naloxone availability, and opioid substitution therapy.

Vista Berlin, active in several locations within Neukölln, operates counseling centres throughout Berlin and advocates for the establishment of a comprehensive early warning system. This system would quickly communicate information about new and dangerous drugs to the population and aid system, potentially saving lives.

The district is also endeavouring to secure funds for an additional consumption room and to expand street social work to provide and connect homeless addicts to the support system with the Senate Administration for Health and the House of Representatives.

The concern about the spread of synthetic opioids in the drug aid system is real. These substances are easily overdoseable and deadly. To combat this, the district is aiming to make naloxone, a medication that is easy to administer and has no negative effects, even if used in people without opioid consumption, available to all professional groups who work with drug-using people, including homeless aid, drug and addiction aid, and the police.

The number of deaths from drug use in Neukölln has been consistently between 20 and 30 people per year since 2020. Last year, 297 people died from consuming illegal drugs in Berlin, an increase from 2023 and 2022. These statistics underscore the urgency of the situation and the need for effective interventions.

Robin Maxime Pohl is working on a Neukölln complex project for civil society, and Hannah Blumberg is critical of the parliamentary investigative committee's performance in addressing the needs of the affected. Nina Pritszens, managing director of Vista Berlin, approves of the district's recommendations.

In a positive development, lockers for homeless people are planned at five locations in Neukölln. These lockers will provide a safe place for homeless individuals to store their belongings, potentially reducing the risk of theft and increasing their sense of security.

The state and the districts can create the framework conditions to implement these measures comprehensively, preparing for a possible opioid crisis in Berlin. The district of Neukölln is committed to reducing deaths from drug use and improving the lives of those affected by addiction.

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