The Green Party faction in the Bundestag has developed a proposal outlining several measures aimed at tackling Germany’s high rates of alcohol consumption. This motion is expected to be tabled in Parliament around the time of Alcohol Awareness Week, which runs from June 13th to 21st.
Linda Heitmann, the Green Party’s spokesperson for drug and addiction policy, emphasized the seriousness of the issue, stating that Germany remains a high-consumption nation when compared internationally. She noted that these figures regularly place the country in regrettable positions within European and international rankings, leading to significant health consequences and enormous economic costs every year.
Heitmann criticized the federal government for its perceived inactivity on the matter. Consequently, the Greens are calling on the government to present a comprehensive, long-term alcohol prevention strategy and to enact a dedicated alcohol prevention law.
Beyond demanding a legal framework, the Greens have proposed several concrete actions. They are calling for the abolition of ‘accompanied drinking’-a practice that currently allows youths aged 14 and older to drink beer or wine in the company of their parents. The Green motion also highlights that a relevant legislative update is already underway within the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs.
Furthermore, the Greens plan to limit alcohol advertising, demand stricter enforcement of age restrictions during sales, and curb impulse purchasing of alcohol. The motion specifically suggests examining the possibility of restricting the free availability of alcoholic beverages in areas like the point-of-sale checkout.
