Alcohol policy should build on experience, not fearmongering

Norway saw an unprecedented national celebration during the World Cup, fueled by extended alcohol serving hours, a move initially met with dire predictions of increased public disorder. Contrary to fears of more drunkenness, violence, and disturbances, the event fostered a sense of national unity, with small and large establishments nationwide becoming vibrant hubs for football supporters.

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The outcome was a national celebration we have hardly experienced since liberation day.

The service industry, drawing on generations of experience in responsible alcohol provision and large-scale event management, ensured professional staffing and adequate security. Municipalities, in collaboration with the industry, planned effectively. Despite initial concerns that the alcohol law would be disregarded, official checks in Oslo revealed no more violations than usual, indicating that the feared negative consequences did not materialize.

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In Oslo, the Business Authority found no more violations of the Alcohol Act than normal.

The World Cup demonstrated the success of a model based on responsibility, trust, and local autonomy. Different cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Bodø implemented varied serving schedules tailored to their specific circumstances, highlighting the value of local political understanding over state-level mandates. This flexibility can help manage crowds by spreading patrons over time, reducing congestion and conflict at transportation hubs and taxi stands.

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Football World Cup showed that responsibility, trust, and local room for maneuver work.

The author suggests that instead of imposing uniform closing times, which often lead to surges in public spaces, municipalities should have the authority to devise solutions that meet local needs. The article concludes by advocating for an alcohol policy grounded in practical experience and trust, rather than succumbing to speculative fears.

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Perhaps it is time that alcohol policy builds more on the experiences from reality – and less on the fear of what might happen.