Spain approves law to curb underage alcohol consumption

By Necva Tastan Sevinc

ISTANBUL (AA) - Spain’s Council of Ministers on Tuesday approved a draft law aimed at reducing alcohol consumption among minors.

The legislation, which now moves to parliament, seeks to limit drinking spaces, tighten sales regulations, and restrict alcohol advertising, according to Spanish news agency EFE.

The law prohibits alcohol consumption in educational centers, except universities, as well as in child protection centers, student residences with minors, and at sports or leisure events targeting young audiences.

Additionally, alcohol advertising will be banned in areas frequented by minors, such as health centers, parks, and children's play areas. The use of individuals under 21 and pregnant women in alcohol-related ads is also prohibited.

To prevent underage sales, vending machines selling alcohol must implement strict age verification mechanisms.

Law enforcement agencies will have the authority to conduct alcohol tests in restricted areas to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Minors caught consuming alcohol may be required to participate in awareness programs as an alternative to fines, promoting education over punishment.

The government hopes these measures will help delay the age of alcohol initiation and lower consumption rates among young people.

The law also aims to standardize regulations across Spain’s autonomous communities, addressing inconsistencies in enforcement.

The initiative follows after the Estudes 2023 survey on drug use in secondary schools in Spain reported high levels of alcohol consumption among adolescents aged 14 to 18.

By implementing stricter controls on sales, advertising, and consumption, authorities seek to create a safer environment for minors and reduce the long-term health risks associated with early alcohol use.