Switzerland is grappling with a serious addiction problem, as highlighted in the latest “Swiss Addiction Panorama 2025” report by Addiction Switzerland. The report, published on Tuesday, reveals that industries profiting from addictive substances and behaviors make significant revenue at the expense of those struggling with addiction and their families. The foundation condemns this as unacceptable and calls on politicians to prioritize public health over corporate profits.
According to Addiction Switzerland, over 10,000 people die each year in the country due to addictive substances. Additionally, the economic burden of addiction is estimated at 7.9 billion Swiss francs annually.
Call for Stricter Regulations
The foundation emphasizes the need for stronger political action against the addiction industry. It argues that, due to the billion-dollar profits involved, industry stakeholders often resist regulatory measures designed to curb addiction and promote public health.
Tania Séverin, Director of Addiction Switzerland, criticized the current approach, stating that while profits are privatized, the social and economic damage is left for the public to bear.
To counteract this, the foundation urges policymakers to resist industry influence and implement stronger measures such as the “Children without Tobacco” initiative and a nationwide ban on disposable electronic cigarettes.
Rising Nicotine Consumption Among Youth
Nicotine consumption is rising, particularly among young people, due to the increasing availability of new nicotine products such as e-cigarettes, tobacco heaters, and snus. Despite regulations on traditional tobacco products, these alternatives have gained popularity, raising concerns about their long-term health effects.
Debate on Cannabis Legalization
Switzerland finds itself at a crucial juncture regarding cannabis legalization. Addiction Switzerland warns that the decision made by the Swiss parliament could significantly impact health policies. If the current bill emphasizing health protection is rejected, a new initiative for legalization may emerge, possibly with fewer safeguards for youth and public health.
A 2022 survey indicates that cannabis use in Switzerland remains stable, with 4% of individuals aged 15 to 64 reporting use in the previous month. Meanwhile, cocaine is the second most commonly used illegal drug, with approximately 1% of the same age group admitting to usage within the past year.
Unclear Trends in Other Illegal Drugs
The report notes that while heroin use appears stable or slightly declining, data on other substances such as ecstasy and methamphetamine remains insufficient for accurate assessment. The lack of comprehensive data on these substances makes it difficult to gauge the full extent of the problem.
Alcohol: A Persistent Issue
Alcohol remains one of Switzerland’s most pressing addiction-related challenges, both in terms of health and economic impact. The annual societal cost of alcohol consumption is estimated at CHF 2.8 billion.
Despite a decline in daily alcohol consumption, binge drinking remains a major concern. Reports show that 12% of the population over 15 years old consumes half of all alcohol in Switzerland. Alarmingly, three men and one woman die every day due to alcohol-related causes, and alcohol plays a role in approximately half of all violent crimes in public spaces.
Gambling Addiction on the Rise
The report also highlights gambling as a growing addiction issue. In 2022, 4.3% of the population exhibited problematic gambling behavior, with total gambling losses exceeding two billion francs. Gambling debts continue to burden affected households, exacerbating financial distress.
A Call for Urgent Policy Changes
Addiction Switzerland stresses the need for immediate action from policymakers. The organization urges the government to implement more stringent regulations to curb addiction-related harm.
For continued updates on Switzerland’s addiction policies and public health measures, visit Coleman News.
Switzerland stands at a crossroads in addressing its addiction crisis. The steps taken today will shape the country’s future health landscape, determining whether public health prevails over industry profits.
