Alcohol consumption by people under 18 is a crucial public health issue. Although the latest ESPAD research data records an encouraging reduction in juvenile alcohol consumption, the situation remains alarming.

Greece’s significant deviation from the European average, with consumption rates reaching 86% to 16 -year -olds, shows that the problem is still intense and complex. Early onset of consumption, even from the age of 11, reveals the need to intensify prevention, information and support interventions at all levels.

Alcohol seriously burdens the health of minors, with an increased risk of poisoning, accident and lesions in the developing brain.

The state proceeds to tighten the framework for the sale, offer and disposal of tobacco products and alcohol to minors. Stricter checks, clear rating sanctions are foreseen in cases of recurrence and strengthening of supervisory mechanisms.

At the same time, the Ministry of Health, in cooperation with the Association of Alcoholic Beverage Businesses (ENEAP), are taking initiatives to inform, prevent and more effectively regulate the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Since June 2024, an information campaign has been implemented that focuses on alcohol consumption by minors, driving under the influence of alcohol and overall information on measured consumption.

“As a industry, we are clear. Our products are aimed exclusively at adults who can consume them. No guy and no amount of alcohol is safe for minors, “Sofika Papanikolaou, Director General of the Union of Alcoholic Beverage Businesses (ENEAP), stresses in RES-EIA.

The items are alarming

The latest Espad figures show that between 2015 and 2024, alcohol consumption by minors has decreased by 10.6%, giving hope and confirms that information and awareness efforts give fruit. At the same time, however, again, according to ESPAD, minors in Greece continue to consume alcohol to a significantly higher rate than the European average. In 2024, over 86% of 16 -year -olds said they had tried alcohol at least once in their lives, 12 points higher than the average in Europe. In addition, his data showing that contact with alcohol starts at a very young age, with some children drinking from 11 years.

These facts are very concerned about us and we must systematically continue the effort we have been making for two decades, Ms Papanikolaou notes.

Prevention begins at home

Her satisfaction with the bill laid down in Parliament, which sets out a new framework for the responsible consumption of alcohol, expresses the Secretary General of ENEAP. Sofika Papanikolaou.

“Our new bill is fully agreeing. We believe it is an important step in protecting minors but also for the proper framework of professionals who serve and sell alcohol. What we believe will, however, play a catalytic role in long -term change is the systematic training and information of all: the young people, their parents and their teachers, the professionals in the industry. And this is a case that requires the cooperation and coordination of the state, the responsible business, the academic community and the civil society. “

Ms Papanikolaou adds that “the family is the primary field of education and socialization for humans. The baton takes the school, where young people shape their personality, through and through the interaction with peers. Thus, it is crucial in the school and family environment to adequately inform adults so that they can provide real support for children. “

According to Mrs Papanikolaou, the annual per capita consumption of alcohol in the EU average is 10.1 liters, significantly larger than the corresponding index in our country estimated at 6.3 liters.

“In Greece, alcohol is associated with our social life, customs and traditions, extroversion, relaxation and company. This does not mean, of course, that there should be no specific mentalities and behaviors to be changed. Minors should not even consume alcohol. Alcohol and driving should never be combined for any reason, “he says. He adds that “these are some of the key points that must be impressed with the consciousness of Greek society. And this can only be achieved through systematic information, with coordination between all stakeholders. “

“Alcohol and Minors” campaign

Ms Papanikolaou explains that the ENEAP side has been implemented for more than 20 years, a wealth of information actions to tackle alcohol consumption by minors.

“We provide useful information material to teachers and parents on how to approach their children, while the” alcohol and minors “pillar has a special place in our Rethink Drink campaign, through which we speak the language of young people to remind them that if it is not below 18. And of course, as a industry we have volunteered – with the relevant Code being signed, including by the Ministry of Health – advertising our products responsible, only to adults. “

Strengthening cooperation with the state

“The” Rethink Drink “campaign, jointly implemented with the Ministry of Health in 2024, is a targeted attempt to raise the awareness of young people 18-35 years around the importance of responsible consumption. With a modern, creative approach and utilizing familiar expressions of daily discourse, the campaign has already achieved a significant impact on its first year. In addition to the positive results, this cooperation is of particular value because it lays the groundwork for a stable context of dialogue and common actions in the future. The prospect is for the cooperation with the state to be further strengthened, with the aim of continuously exchanging views and planning more targeted interventions for the public, ”notes Ms Papanikolaou.

He adds that the Rethink Drink campaign is part of a wider network of initiatives undertaken by ENEAP. For years for responsible consumption.

“Indicatively, in 2024 we signed with the Ministry of Health, the SEAOO and the TEU the renewed guidelines for alcoholic beverages, while maintaining a steady cooperation with the Panos Mylonas Road Safety Institute and participate in wider Hellenic Institutes. Through these synergies, we strive to function as a responsible social partner, in practice promoting a culture of measure, information and responsibility for alcohol consumption. “