Thuringian cities celebrate success: alcohol ban works wonders!

Thuringian cities celebrate success: alcohol ban works wonders!

The discussion about alcohol ban zones in Thuringia is gaining momentum. As n-tv reports, the affected cities draw a consistently positive conclusion. In places like Gera, Eisenach and Jena, those responsible are pleased with the noticeable changes. Significant reductions in crime and general cleanliness in the prohibited zones are the results of these measures.

In Gera, for example, where a comprehensive alcohol ban has been in effect in the city center since July 2017, a clear difference is noticed. However, regular checks by the police and public order office are necessary to ensure compliance with the regulations. There were also positive experiences in Jena and Erfurt, although the city of Weimar, which does not stick to these zones, has other priorities.

The causes and social access

But what makes the discussion about alcohol in society so complex? According to Thüringen24, alcohol is widely viewed as an enjoyable and accepted good in Germany, despite the known risks of excessive consumption. The numbers are alarming: Over 44,000 people in Thuringia sought help for alcohol addiction in 2023, of which around 33,500 men and around 10,800 women were affected.

Older age groups find themselves particularly burdened; In the 55 to 64 year old group, it affects 9,500 men and 2,900 women. Experts emphasize that social pressure and the high acceptance of alcohol in our culture make the early detection of addictions much more difficult. Unfortunately, this often means that many affected people do not seek professional help.

The effects of addiction and necessary measures

The effects of alcohol addiction are anything but harmless and can have profound consequences for health, psychology and social relationships. And yet there is often no public discussion about these topics, although the number of unreported cases of those affected is estimated to be significant. According to the German Central Office for Addiction Issues, there are around 3 million adults in Germany with alcohol-related disorders. DHS shows that of these 1.6 million people are addicted to alcohol.

In order to address the problem in the long term, addiction experts are calling for coordinated measures at the federal level. Suggestions to reduce alcohol consumption include higher prices, advertising bans and restrictions on sales. Health Minister Katharina Schenk has already announced that she will promote health care in Thuringia in order to specifically strengthen prevention programs.

The need to discuss alcohol consumption and the associated risks is therefore beyond question. The successes of the alcohol ban zones are a first step, but solving the problem requires significantly more commitment and a broad social debate about how to deal with alcohol.

In summary, the introduction of alcohol-free zones may show initial success, but combating alcohol addiction requires more comprehensive approaches and the willingness of all actors to face the issue openly.