European countries implement various alcohol sales restrictions and create zones to curb consumption and public disorder.
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Delfi.lt - LIT
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While Lithuania has struggled with illegal trade and shadow markets, assessments show that the growth of mass illegal alcohol markets is not recorded, and the World Health Organization cites Lithuania as an example of successful comprehensive policy implementation. In other European countries, such as Poland, alcohol sales restrictions have been implemented for a year in some cities, showing reduced police calls, public order offenses, and emergency room visits. Spain also sees regional decisions to impose limits, with many autonomous regions banning alcohol sales in shops and gas stations between 10 PM and 8 AM, noting a decrease in youth alcohol consumption from 2006 to 2023. France has implemented bans on night-time alcohol sales at gas stations and prohibits the sale of chilled alcohol at night. Belgium and Italy primarily apply nighttime trade restrictions to specific venues like late-night stores, vending machines, and highway gas stations for public order and traffic safety. To curb noise, public disorder, and crime, some European cities are creating designated zones where alcohol consumption is prohibited, which experts view as a way to manage alcohol consumption without restricting sales hours. Austria and the Czech Republic are also increasingly adopting alcohol-free zones in public spaces like train stations and parks.
