The 2024 ESPAD report, marking 30 years of monitoring adolescent substance use in Europe, shows a continued decline in drinking and smoking among teenagers but highlights new concerns such as rising e-cigarette use, misuse of pharmaceuticals, and digital risk behaviours. The findings call for stronger prevention and mental health strategies across Europe.

A new CAN report shows that Swedes are bringing home far less alcohol from abroad than before. Between 2019 and 2024, traveler imports dropped by more than 40 percent, with spirits showing the largest decline.

The Finnish government’s proposal to expand alcohol home delivery and distance selling threatens to increase alcohol consumption and harms while directing profits abroad. EHYT warns that the move undermines proven public health policies and places children and youth at greater risk.

Cocaine use among young people in Norway has more than doubled in the past decade, and many now see the drug as easy to access. Blue Cross is responding with a new national campaign to counteract the normalization of cocaine and strengthen prevention efforts. The campaign, launched in October on TikTok and Snapchat, will share facts, stories, and tools to help young people resist pressure and make safer choices.

The Government of Greenland has just submitted expert recommendations for a multi-year, evidence-based alcohol policy to the Parliament of Greenland. The recommendations are intended to form the basis for a broad political agreement on alcohol policy, which can set the framework for continued work on a long-term and sustainable alcohol policy.

Maternal substance use can disrupt early attachment and child development, but children also show resilience. A new dissertation highlights the need for early, strength-based support.

A University of Helsinki doctoral study shows that Finns exposed to more liberal alcohol policies in their youth have higher rates of alcohol-related illness and mortality later in life. The findings underline how policy decisions can shape public health outcomes decades into the future.

A new CAN report suggests a turning point in Sweden’s drug trends, showing reduced use among young people. The findings are based on health, mortality, crime statistics, and surveys.

A new agreement in Denmark will make alcohol less visible in supermarkets and grocery stores. From October 2025, alcoholic drinks may not be placed near candy, chips, toys, fruit and vegetables, or checkout areas. The aim is to reduce young people’s exposure and temptation to buy alcohol, as part of the government’s prevention plan.

A new study from CAN shows that the most common reason young people use alcohol, cannabis, and psychedelics is to enhance positive feelings. While drinking alcohol is often linked to becoming more social, cannabis and psychedelics are more associated with coping with anxiety, low mood, or seeking mind-expanding effects. Understanding these motives can help guide effective preventive measures.

World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September) focuses on Changing the Narrative on Suicide. NordAN highlights a neglected part of that story: alcohol. Acute intoxication impairs judgment and raises the risk of suicidal behaviour, and alcohol use disorder is linked to higher rates of attempts and deaths. Changing the narrative means replacing “drink to cope” with real support, integrating alcohol screening into care, and advancing population policies that reduce harm.

Today, 9 September, is International FASD Day. Across the Nordics and Baltics the signal is clear, alcohol and pregnancy do not mix. Sweden reports new school age prevalence data and hosts the free Fokus FAS 2025 conference. Finland marks 9:09 with a retail delay. Norway rolls out a national diagnostic guideline. Estonia prepares new materials for families. FASD is harm to others and preventable through awareness, evidence based counselling, and strong alcohol policy.

Two out of three students say initiation activities revolve around alcohol, and one in three worry about being humiliated or excluded if they do not join in. IQ’s new survey shows that many feel pressured to drink more than they want, while more than half would prefer less focus on alcohol. Concerns are also evident in high schools, where nearly half report that initiations center on drinking.

Homelessness, substance use, and gambling problems among young Finns are increasing. The Blue Ribbon Association and Foundation appealed to Minister Mika Poutala, stressing that state budget decisions and policies on alcohol, gambling, and housing must better safeguard youth wellbeing. They warn that no welfare state should attempt to balance its finances by worsening young people’s struggles with addiction and homelessness.

More than half of young Danes are taking breaks from alcohol. A new survey shows that 51% of 17–34-year-olds, and 54.5% of students, chose to go alcohol-free for a period in the past year. Health and wellbeing are the main reasons, reflecting a shift toward more conscious choices. Experts see this as the beginning of a cultural change in Denmark’s drinking habits.

A new analysis from the Danish Cancer Society shows that nearly half of all supermarket flyer offers are for unhealthy products such as sweets, snacks, alcohol, and ready meals. On average, 46 percent of promotions fall into this category, making it harder for consumers to choose healthy foods. The organisation warns this contributes to poor diets and rising overweight rates, and points to England’s new restrictions on multi-buy offers as possible inspiration.

In July 2025, Norway marked 50 years since introducing its total ban on alcohol advertising. Recognised by WHO as one of the most effective measures to reduce alcohol harm, the ban remains a cornerstone of Norwegian alcohol policy. Despite constant challenges, especially on social media, it continues to protect public health and reduce drinking pressure.

The A-Clinic Foundation’s Fragile Childhood programme has launched the Luottoaikuiset (“Trusted Adults”) campaign to highlight the importance of safe, caring adults in children’s and young people’s lives. Supported by Maaret Kallio and Matti Rönkä, the campaign shares real-life stories and encourages adults to be present and set a positive example, especially where alcohol-related harm affects wellbeing.

IOGT Norway criticizes the Labour Party for political horse-trading that could weaken Norway’s internationally recognized alcohol policy. The organization is disappointed by the party’s openness to loosening restrictions, such as allowing alcohol in parks and possibly weakening the alcohol advertising ban. IOGT urges the party to maintain a restrictive, effective policy that prioritizes public health and safety over market interests.

A new survey shows that 42.1% of Danes chose to abstain from alcohol for a period during the past year, up from 34.6% in 2024. Health, better sleep and more energy were key reasons. Blue Cross Denmark sees this as a sign that more people are reflecting on their drinking habits, not necessarily quitting completely, but drinking more consciously. The organisation hopes this trend will support a healthier alcohol culture in Denmark.