How liberal is Estonian alcohol policy? A review of policy development, 1991-2008

Abstract

AIMS: This article inspects alcohol policy changes in Estonia between 1991 and 2008, using the Eurocare Bridging the Gap (BtG) scale. Estonian indicators are compared with those of 30 European countries.Seven alcohol policy measures are discussed: control of production and wholesale; control of distribution; age limits; advertising; social and environmental control; public policy; and alcohol taxation. DATA: The indicator values are based on an analysis of legislative changes and governmental programmes during these years. RESULTS: Alcohol policy issues have had low political priority in independent Estonia. In international comparison, the initial policy of the early 1990s was extremely liberal. The most intensive period of political and economic reforms started to subside after 1995, alcohol legislation was overhauled in 1998-1999 and unified restrictions on sales hours were introduced in 2008, all of which led to receding liberalism. The contrast to the neighbouring Nordic countries nevertheless remains sharp. In relation to other European countries, Estonian alcohol controls remain at a medium level. CONCLUSIONS: In line with an improved administrative capacity, Estonia has implemented more structured alcohol policies, which also take social aspects into consideration.