17.12.2024 - The Ministry of Social Affairs has released the draft strategy Alcohol use reduction directions 2025–2035 for public discussion before it proceeds for final approval by the government. The new strategy addresses Estonia’s persistent alcohol consumption problem through evidence-based, cross-sectoral measures.
Rising challenges and the need for reform
Alcohol consumption in Estonia remains among the highest in Europe, with 11.2 liters of pure alcohol consumed per capita in 2022, up from 10 liters in 2018. This increase has been linked to the reduction of alcohol excise taxes in 2019, despite international evidence showing that lower alcohol prices directly increase consumption and harm. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated mental health challenges and alcohol-related issues.
The strategy highlights concerning data: alcohol-related deaths rose to 753 in 2022 compared to 496 in 2018, and traffic incidents involving intoxicated drivers remain a significant issue, with 6,300 violations recorded in 2023.
Key goals and strategic priorities
The document sets clear objectives for reducing alcohol consumption to 8.7 liters per capita by 2035, with a focus on population-wide measures rather than individual behavioral changes. The main priorities are:
Increasing alcohol prices through excise taxes The strategy proposes regular excise adjustments to align with inflation, ensuring alcohol becomes progressively less affordable. A portion of the revenue will fund addiction treatment and prevention programs.
Reducing alcohol availability Measures include shorter retail hours, banning alcohol sales near schools and playgrounds, restricting online sales, and reducing the density of alcohol retail outlets.
Strengthening early intervention and treatment The government emphasizes early detection of harmful drinking patterns, expanding brief interventions in healthcare settings, and improving access to high-quality addiction treatment services.
Enhancing public safety By targeting intoxicated driving and alcohol-related violence, the plan introduces initiatives like community prevention programs, enhanced enforcement, and the use of technology for monitoring repeat offenders.
Changing social norms Raising awareness of alcohol's health risks, especially its link to cancer, and fostering societal support for alcohol-free lifestyles are central to the strategy. The plan also seeks to destigmatize addiction treatment and promote alcohol-free environments.
A collective effort
The strategy was developed by the Ministry of Social Affairs in collaboration with ministries, health experts, and civil society organizations. Recommendations from WHO and OECD analyses played a key role in shaping the proposed measures. Minister Riina Sikkut emphasized the importance of societal awareness, noting that alcohol harm affects not only individuals but families, communities, and the economy as a whole.
The Alcohol use reduction directions 2025–2035 draft provides a comprehensive plan to reverse troubling trends, but its success will depend on sustained political will and public engagement. Feedback is being collected before the strategy moves forward for final government approval.