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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

From 1 August 2025, Latvia will enforce new restrictions on alcohol sales and marketing, limiting retail hours, banning price promotions, and requiring health warnings on packaging. The move comes in response to the country’s high alcohol consumption, among the highest in the EU and OECD, and aims to reduce alcohol-related harm. The law was passed after two years of debate and will be reviewed in October based on early health and retail impact data.

Finland’s draft reform to the Alcohol Act would allow home delivery, cross-border distance sales, and digital advertising of spirits. In its submission, NordAN warns the changes risk dismantling the public health-focused Nordic model. Alongside the submission, NordAN also sent the “Elders’ Letter” to Finnish ministers and party leaders, urging transparency and a clear commitment to evidence-based alcohol policy.

A new Voxmeter survey shows that one in four Danes believe people should wait until 18 to start drinking alcohol. Blue Cross Denmark sees this as a sign that more Danes want to change the country’s drinking culture. The Danish Health Authority recommends avoiding alcohol before 18 due to health risks, and research links early drinking to later misuse. Blue Cross Denmark supports an 18-year age limit for all alcohol sales.

A new report from the Swedish Drug Policy Center argues that drug prevention is not only a public health issue but a human right - especially for children. Released alongside an op-ed in Göteborgs-Posten, the report highlights rising cannabis use among parents in Canada and criticises the global drug policy debate for sidelining prevention in favor of legalization narratives.

A new report from Aarhus University reveals Danes’ use of drugs and alcohol based on wastewater analysis in six cities. The study found significant differences in opioid consumption between cities and showed that cocaine, MDMA, and alcohol use spike on weekends. Most other substances are used steadily throughout the week. The findings provide a unique insight into actual drug habits and may help guide future public health efforts.

Nearly 4 out of 10 Danish parents find it harder to talk to their teenager about alcohol once they start upper secondary school, a new study from the Danish Cancer Society and TrygFonden shows. While many parents believe that introducing alcohol at home teaches responsible drinking, research indicates it can actually lead to higher alcohol consumption among young people. Making clear agreements with teenagers remains the most effective approach.

Norway’s government has reached a cross-party agreement on the second part of its prevention and treatment reform, keeping drug use illegal while introducing simplified fines for minor offences. Youth under 18 will be referred to advisory units instead. Actis welcomes the move, calling it a step toward more effective and predictable drug policy.

A new Voxmeter survey shows that 58.3% of Danes support raising the minimum age for buying all types of alcohol to 18. The results come as Danish youth are again ranked as Europe's heaviest drinkers. Blue Cross Denmark welcomes the strong public backing, seeing it as a sign that Danes are ready for change and increased responsibility to protect young people from alcohol harm.

Norwegians' greatest fear in traffic is encountering intoxicated drivers, with 10,848 drivers reported for impaired driving in 2024—an average of 30 per day. Intoxication is the cause of one in five fatal accidents on Norwegian roads, and experts warn that the actual numbers are likely much higher due to significant underreporting. Surveys show that 76% of Norwegians rank drunk drivers as their top concern in traffic.