Wiesbaden starts Hesse's first drug checking to minimize risks!

Wiesbaden starts Hesse's first drug checking to minimize risks!

An innovative pilot project for drug checking will be launched in Wiesbaden from October - the first of its kind in Hesse. The aim is to reduce risks in nightlife and to provide consumers with comprehensive information about their substances. In collaboration with the city health department, Wiesbaden Addiction Help Center, JJ e.V., Caritas and basis e.V., this project will usher in a new era of harm reduction.

The main focus is on substance analyzes and personal consultations. Consumers can have their products tested for active ingredient content and composition. These measures aim to reduce the health risks of drug use and promote responsible consumption behavior. Health department head Milena Löbcke emphasizes that Wiesbaden is taking on a pioneering role in the area of ​​drug checking.

Six central goals

The pilot project pursues six central goals:

• Reduktion gesundheitlicher Risiken durch chemische Analysen.
• Aufklärung und Stärkung des Risikobewusstseins durch persönliche Beratung.
• Niedrigschwelliger Zugang zur Suchthilfe.
• Förderung einer verantwortungsvollen Clubkultur.
• Evaluation von Akzeptanz und Effekten durch digitale Fragebögen.
• Prüfung von Perspektiven für ein dauerhaftes Angebot.

The first phase will initially focus on cannabis products, before a state regulation for a broader range follows. The analyzes are carried out by basis e.V., while the advice is provided in close cooperation with the addiction help center and Caritas. Information and advice stands are provided at various clubs, and club staff are also trained.

Anonymity and security

Another important aspect of the project is the anonymity of the tests and consultations. Personal data is not stored, which gives consumers security and trust. The first ten events of the pilot will take place at various clubs that will not be announced in advance.

The initiative is part of a larger harm reduction trend also seen in cities like Berlin and facilities in Lima. In Berlin, for example, Drug Checking offers various counseling and testing services for psychoactive substances, and the discussion about drug use has changed from repressive to educational approaches. The projects in Lima and Berlin make it clear that open discussion about drugs and the provision of information are central elements for effective risk reduction.

A current focus is particularly on sexualized substance use, which often oscillates between recreational pleasure and addictive behavior. Substances such as MDMA and cocaine are used in contexts that often promote social encounters or sexual contact, but they also pose significant risks. Raising awareness about these risks and providing safe consumption practices are part of the harm reduction approach, which is also evident in the implementation of the Wiesbaden project.

In conclusion, the harm reduction initiatives in Wiesbaden, Berlin and Lima show that a rethink is necessary - away from purely punitive policies towards an approach that relies on education and enlightenment. This is the only way to establish a responsible and safe drug culture.