Coalition urges Iceland government to address online alcohol sales as public health threat

A coalition of fifteen health organizations in Iceland is urging the government to take action against what they describe as an “ongoing public health threat” stemming from the significant increase in online alcohol sales. The coalition includes various professional associations, such as the Icelandic Nurses Association, the Public Health Association, and the Icelandic Medical Association, among others.

In a statement to the media and Parliament, these organizations echoed the health minister’s concerns regarding the threats posed to key public health goals by the alleged illegal online sale of alcohol, which was highlighted in a public letter from the minister on June 5 of this year. They are calling for an immediate determination of the legality of online alcohol sales, especially as the retail chain Hagkaup plans to start selling alcohol in the coming days.

The organizations remind the government of the national public health policy, which aims for Iceland to be among the leading nations in public health work based on the best scientific knowledge and experience. They stress the necessity for public health considerations to guide all planning and policy-making efforts.

Additionally, the law regarding the sale of alcohol and tobacco mandates the establishment of ÁTVR, which is tasked with defining the framework for alcohol retail and tobacco wholesale that prioritizes improved public health, social responsibility, and the protection of youth from alcohol and tobacco use.

In their closing remarks, the organizations urge the authorities to adhere steadfastly to the approved public health policy goals for 2030 and to the current legal framework concerning the private importation of alcohol.