Alcohol harm is not inevitable. It is shaped by the policies that countries choose, and it can be reduced. On 26 June 2026, WHO launches Implementing what works in alcohol policy: progress report on the SAFER initiative, a stocktake of progress since 2018 in implementing the Global Alcohol Action Plan 2022–2030.
The measures that reduce alcohol harm are well established: pricing, controls on availability, marketing restrictions, action on drink–driving, and screening and brief advice. The hard part is putting them in place and keeping them there. This launch is built to show that work, not just describe it. In a 90-minute webinar, four countries set out, on an equal footing, what implementing alcohol policy really looks like, including the obstacles and the industry pressure they meet along the way:
- Uganda is bringing alcohol policy across government, and introducing alcohol screening and brief advice into routine primary care.
- Nepal shows how civil society and the courts upheld a national ban on alcohol advertising in 2023, backed by a volunteer monitoring network.
- Ireland is bringing one of the world's most comprehensive alcohol laws to life in 10 communities, reaching around 190 000 people.
- Sri Lanka is building a national delivery platform, supported by a UNDP investment case that brings finance and health together.
A dedicated session draws out what these countries are learning from one another, before the formal launch of the report.
The webinar is open to Member States, partners, civil society organizations, researchers and others working on alcohol policy and the prevention of noncommunicable diseases.Participation in this event is reserved for those free from conflicts of interest with the alcohol, tobacco and arms industries. By registering, you confirm that you are not a representative of, affiliated with, or funded by the alcohol, tobacco or arms production or trade sectors, and that you have no related financial or other interest. WHO reserves the right to decline registration, refuse admission, or remove any participant at its discretion.