As a network, NordAN advocates the prevention and reduction of alcohol and drug-related harm through evidence-based alcohol and drug policy in the Nordic and Baltic countries. This year’s conference theme “Rethinking Addiction: Policy, Prevention, and Progress” reflects a commitment to engage with the pressing challenges of alcohol and drug misuse in our societies and our determination to shape a more health-oriented and effective approach to tackling these issues.

The NDPHS Expert Group on Alcohol and Substance Use was represented by Mr. Zaza Tseretely who took the stage during the plenary “Issues relevant to NordAN member countries and organizations – Alcohol and Tobacco control policies and challenges we face in ND Region. David versus Goliath?”.

During the NordAN General Assembly meeting a resolution “Upholding the alcohol retail monopoly system in Nordic alcohol policy” was adopted with the following key points:

• Recognizing the critical role the Nordic Alcohol Policy plays as a cornerstone of the respected Nordic welfare state model;
• Acknowledging the foundational premise of Nordic alcohol monopolies;
• Highlighting the distinct disparity in controlled sales outlet density under the monopoly system;
• Drawing attention to ongoing discussions in Sweden and Iceland about introducing “farm sales”;
• Reiterating the benefits of a centralised public monopoly, which is fundamentally rooted in the foundational principle of keeping private profit motives out of the sale of alcohol.

Main source and more information: https://www.nordicalcohol.org/