Germany's Doctors Demand Stricter Alcohol Sales and Underage Drinking Bans

The Marburg Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians is pushing for tighter controls on alcohol sales. Their proposals include banning high-proof drinks from supermarkets and ending supervised drinking for under-16s. The group argues that stricter rules would cut health risks linked to alcohol use in Germany. The association wants spirits and strong alcohol sold only in licensed shops. Supermarkets, petrol stations, and convenience stores would no longer stock these products under the plan. Officials believe this would make it harder for young people to access high-strength drinks.

Another key change targets the current exemption for 14- and 15-year-olds. At present, they can buy and drink beer, wine, or sparkling wine if a parent or guardian is present. The association wants this rule scrapped entirely, aligning with broader calls to raise the drinking age. Delegates pointed to global studies showing that stricter age checks and sales limits reduce alcohol harm. They described underage drinking as a major preventable health issue in Germany. The group also backs wider efforts to abolish supervised drinking for adolescents aged 14 and above.

The proposals would remove alcohol from everyday retail spaces and close a loophole for young teens. If adopted, the changes could reshape how and where Germans buy high-proof drinks. Health officials insist the measures are necessary to lower alcohol-related harm.