Resolution February 2009
Extraordinary assembly of representatives
Copenhagen, February 20 2009
Resolution:
Alcohol is one of the worst killers of our time. Drinking is a major contributing factor behind deaths, illnesses, accidents and violence. This is the case not only in the Nordic and Baltic countries, but also in the rest of Europe and in most other parts of the world.
Therefore, it is important that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has decided to work out a global strategy against alcohol problems, and that the European Union has adopted a strategy to support the member states in preventing alcohol related harm. We also note with satisfaction, that the Swedish government intends to put alcohol policy high on the agenda during the Swedish presidency of the EU, during the second half of 2009.
We urge our governments to support the WHO secretariat in developing a strong evidence based global strategy, aiming both at reducing the total consumption of alcohol and at preventing risky patterns of drinking. We urge political decision makers not to give any influence to the alcohol industry in this process, since the industry tends to try to block policies that are known to have effect, such as a high real price on alcohol and restrictions on availability.
We hope that our governments will take an active part in the European process during 2009, supporting the Council of ministers to take a strong position on the continuation of the EU strategy, when the Council receives the status report from the Commission on the implementation of the strategy so far. Even if progress is made in many countries, there is much left to do.
We also think that the non governmental organisations (NGOs) have an important role to play, both in the Nordic, European and processes. Therefore, we urge our member organisations and other parts of the civil society to contribute, to put pressures on their governments, and to take the opportunities available to raise their voice in the public debate in favour of efficient policies based on science and solidarity.
