There have been proposals in the European Union in fresh months that could change the lives of millions of Europeans. Talk about ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol. Although specified an thought sounds like something unrealistic, there are increasingly strong voices that request stricter alcohol regulations, including a full ban on its consumption. What erstwhile seemed unthinkable is now the subject of a serious debate at global level. This issue is controversial – both in the context of public healthand civilian liberties.
The problem of alcohol abuse in Europe
Alcohol is 1 of the most popular drugs in the world. According to planet wellness Organisation (WHO) data, about 5.3% of deaths worldwide are related to excessive alcohol consumption. In Europe, including Poland, this problem is becoming increasingly pressing. According to reports European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), in 2021 Over 70% of adults in the European Union declared regular alcohol consumption. In Poland, according to the Central Statistical Office, more than 11 million Poles consume alcohol at least erstwhile a week, and excessive drinking is inactive widespread.
Problems related to alcohol abuse, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, road accidents and home violence, are only any of the most serious social and wellness effects of excessive alcohol consumption.
Proposals to ban alcohol in the European Union – what changes?
In consequence to the expanding number of wellness and social problems related to alcohol, European Union She began to consider drastic measures to limit its consumption. In 2024, as part of public wellness measures, any EU institutions began to make proposals that they had established introducing a ban on the sale of alcohol in associate States. Although these proposals are for the time being consultation and recommendations, it itself causes immense controversy.
The thought of banning alcohol in the European Union involves concerns about its impact on public health, as well as an expanding number of addicts. Representatives of any expert groups point to the request to tighten the rules to reduce alcohol consumption to levels little harmful to health.
Arguments of supporters of the ban – wellness and safety
Supporters of a full alcohol ban in the European Union say Alcohol is the main culprit many social problems, including increased number of road accidents, Crimeand long-term diseases. It is frequently stressed that alcohol is addictive factor, which not only impairs the wellness of consumers but besides affects their environment.
Also Economic the cost of excessive alcohol consumption is huge. According to the study Foundation of the Polish improvement Fund, costs related to the treatment of addicts, rehabilitation and road accidents resulting from driving under the influence of alcohol in Poland in 2022 amounted to over PLN 4 billion. akin costs are recorded in another EU countries.
Supporters of the ban besides stress that the introduction of restrictions on the sale of alcohol could lead to crucial reduced number of addictsIt would besides affect general level of public security.
Opponents of the ban – individual freedom and social consequences
Despite the expanding number of proposals to ban alcohol, Adversaries of this idea They do not halt in opposition. They argue that alcohol is simply a legal substance and its consumption should be Freedom of choice all citizen. This approach may lead to drastic restrictions on individual freedomswhat many people think is unacceptable in a democratic society.
In addition, opponents point to minor impact of the ban on a real simplification in alcohol consumption. Prohibitions in another parts of the planet specified as Prohibition in the United States in the 1920s, were unsuccessful and led to Increase in illegal production and alcohol tradewhich in turn generated even greater social problems.
Alternative solutions – education and prevention
Instead of a complete ban, many experts believe that a more effective solution would be prevention and educationwhich would aid the public better realize the dangers of alcohol. It points to the request to introduce programmes which They educate young people about the consequences of excessive alcohol consumption and advance a healthy lifestyle.
In addition, they could be effective restrictions on advertising of alcohol, Increase in excise dutiesand Limiting the availability of alcohol in public places. specified solutions would reduce alcohol consumption without compromising fundamental civilian liberties.
The thought of introducing a full ban on alcohol in the European Union is controversial and emotional. Come on. alcohol consumption in Poland and Europe has a negative impact on public wellness and safety, this ban is not a solution that suits everyone. The future of this thought seems to depend on a compromise between wellness and respect for civilian liberties.
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Should alcohol be completely forbidden? The EU's controversial proposal gives large emotion
