Finnish, Norwegian, and Swedish alcohol policy after the seminal year of 2004

Abstract

Aim To assess how Finland, Norway and Sweden reorganised their alcohol policies after the travellers import quotas for alcoholic beverages were abolished in 2004. Data & Methods Alcohol taxation, alcohol programs and other alcohol policy changes, as well as common alcohol policy initiatives by the Nordic Alcohol monopoly countries are examined. In addition to relevant research literature, the main sources used are public reports and documents as well as interviews with nine key informants in the field of alcohol policy. Results Finland is characterized as the country with the highest alcohol consumption and an alcohol policy that is different from the policies in Norway and Sweden. Typical for Norway, apart from an increased availability of alcoholic beverages, is an active engagement in international alcohol policy issues, whereas Sweden is characterized by big administrative alcohol policy changes, and by the rulings of the EC-court in alcohol policy matters. Conclusions Alcohol policy in Finland has not been as prioritized as in Norway and Sweden, and there has not been an active political support for restrictive social alcohol policy in Finland. Despite clear similarities, the differences in Finland's, Norway's and Sweden's alcohol policies have increased since 2004, and it has become increasingly difficult to talk about a common Nordic alcohol policy.