Reframing the anti-alcohol debate

By James Lawrence

Published: 10 June, 2025

The global temperance movement, buoyed by an influential public health lobby, is gaining momentum. Under growing scrutiny from governments, medical institutions and the World Health Organisation (WHO), the drinks trade is entering uncharted territory. It is required to justify its continued existence – and to defend a historic beverage that, while culturally rich and economically vital, is increasingly viewed as malign.

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