Public health and commercial pressures in the region

The regional sessions connected the future of Nordic alcohol retail monopolies with wider changes in substance policy. Alko, Systembolaget and the Faroese retail monopoly formed the starting point for a discussion about how public health objectives can be maintained as markets, political priorities and consumer expectations change.

Roope Tukia’s presentation described the pressures facing Alko in Finland. Changes to grocery-store alcohol sales and longer opening hours sit alongside further proposals for market opening. His account showed how a monopoly’s public health mandate can formally remain in place while successive reforms weaken its position. Cross-border online sales add another challenge: according to figures presented by Alko, Finnish alcohol taxes and charges were properly paid on only 2% of the volume purchased from foreign online retailers. The Finnish case therefore raises questions about both harm prevention and the ability to maintain effective taxation and oversight.

Lithuania’s hemp case showed how commercial expansion can create new regulatory challenges. Nijolė Goštautaitė Midttun traced changes in hemp legislation and warned about gaps in the control of concentrated intermediates, export destinations and product use. Her presentation also connected the hemp industry with the emergence of semi-synthetic cannabinoids and new consumer formats, including vapes. The concern was that promises of investment and innovation could move faster than the institutions and resources needed to assess risks, verify product contents and protect young people.

Norway offered a different example of the distance between policy decisions and implementation. Stig Erik Sørheim described continuing uncertainty following years of drug-policy debate and the June 2025 political compromise. At the time of the conference, the new laws had not entered into force, municipal advisory units were largely inactive, and the police role remained unclear. His presentation underlined that reform needs functioning services and clear responsibilities if it is to translate into prevention and support.

Across these cases, a shared concern emerged: public health protection depends on more than the wording of a policy. It also requires institutions with the capacity to monitor changing markets, enforce rules and respond when new risks appear.

Children and young people: prevention, family support and early help

The Faroese children and youth session brought together three perspectives on preventing substance-related harm and supporting young people. Títt Rúm, Lív Lívið and DAT Ung work at different points, but their presentations shared an emphasis on relationships, supportive environments and help that considers the young person’s wider circumstances.

Trygvi í Liða described Títt Rúm’s work with children and young adults affected by substance use in their families. His presentation cited an estimated 1,100 children living in families affected by substance use problems. The service offers individual, family and group therapy, alongside guidance for parents. Groups give participants the opportunity to meet others who understand their experiences and recognise that they are not alone. Working with the people around a child, and supporting those who are becoming parents themselves, connects this work with prevention across generations.

Lív Brúsá presented Lív Lívið’s approach to strengthening young people and the environments around them. Its work helps young people develop life skills, connect with trusted adults and delay their first alcoholic drink. Parents are supported in setting clear boundaries and building strong relationships with their children. Prevention also reaches into community life, from schools and youth centres to festivals and cultural events, creating opportunities for participation without alcohol. Her closing message was straightforward: strengthen young people, create supportive environments and keep showing up.

Maria Svabo Samuelsen described DAT Ung’s outpatient treatment for young people aged 15–25. Anyone can contact the service without a doctor’s referral. Assessment considers substance use alongside family relationships, school, work, housing and possible mental health conditions. Treatment plans are developed with the young person, and parents or guardians are regularly involved when the person is under 18. The work includes developing skills to manage emotions and everyday challenges, with greater cooperation between services when needs are more complex.

Together, the presentations showed how prevention and treatment can connect around young people and their families. Support may begin before a young person uses substances, through help with difficulties at home or opportunities in the community. When problems develop, early and accessible help can address both substance use and the circumstances surrounding it.