Zurich Socialists Debate Free Alcohol at Party Events

A debate is brewing within Zurich's Socialist Party (SP) over the provision of free alcohol at party gatherings. Benjamin Kobelt, a party member since 2021, has submitted a motion to prohibit the free serving of alcohol at SP Stadt Zürich events.

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They need a safe space.

Kobelt, who is 35 and works as a construction worker, argues that the presence of free alcohol creates a difficult environment for individuals recovering from addiction. He believes the party should offer a "safe space" and that abstaining from serving alcohol is a matter of inclusion. Kobelt himself has a history of substance abuse, having undergone treatment for cocaine addiction and problematic alcohol consumption, and strives for abstinence.

His motion proposes that "SP Stadt Zürich shall in the future not provide alcohol free of charge at events." Kobelt admits this is a compromise, as he would prefer a complete ban on bar services, stating, "I am constantly tempted to relapse."

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It's about inclusion. It's about not excluding addicts.

However, the party leadership has shown little enthusiasm for Kobelt's proposal. He expressed surprise at their cool reception, emphasizing that the issue is about including members with addiction issues. Kobelt joined the SP during a period he described as the "woke wave," motivated by a perceived lack of representation for the working class. He recalled an early party meeting where wine was served liberally, which he found problematic given his own struggles.

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I am constantly tempted to relapse.