The Marburger Bund, a major German medical association, has expressed a call for significantly stricter regulations regarding access to alcohol. In a resolution adopted at its 147th General Meeting in Hanover, the group stipulated that the sale of high-proof alcoholic beverages should be restricted exclusively to licensed, specialized retailers-specifically referred to as “alcohol shops”. Consequently, supermarkets, gas stations, and small corner stores would be prohibited from offering high-proof alcohol.
The association stressed that alcohol consumption represents one of the largest avoidable health risks within Germany, emphasizing the critical need for better protection for young people. The delegates stated that early-established consumption patterns demonstrably elevate the risk of future dependency issues, alongside broader health and social complications.
These concerns led the Marburger Bund to also endorse the federal government’s plans to eliminate the current “accompanied drinking” exception for youth. This exception currently permits the purchase and consumption of beer, wine, and sparkling wine by individuals as young as 14 or 15, provided they are accompanied by a legal guardian. The delegates highlighted international evidence suggesting that implementing higher minimum age limits and adopting stricter sales rules can significantly curb alcohol consumption and offer effective protection to young people.