Over 20 groups call for stricter alcohol control in Czechia

Over 20 organizations, including the Czech office of the WHO and the Czech Medical Chamber, have called on politicians to impose stricter alcohol controls. They propose regulating ads, restricting sales locations and hours, and adjusting excise duties based on alcohol content.

At a press conference, they pointed out that Czechia has one of the highest alcohol consumption rates, with 7,000 alcohol-related deaths annually.

Their recommendations include banning alcohol ads online and at sports events, limiting TV and radio ads, restricting sales near schools and public places, and better enforcing existing rules. They also call for more public education on alcohol risks.

The appeal, addressed to Prime Minister Petr Fiala and other officials, was signed by groups like the National Institute of Mental Health and the Czech Chamber of Pharmacists.