The Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins (CEEV), representing EU wine companies, welcomes the Political Declaration negotiated at the United Nations’ 4th High-Level Meeting on the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and the promotion of mental health and well-being, which is scheduled for formal adoption at the upcoming UN General Assembly in October.
CEEV believes in the importance of addressing the global challenge of NCDs through comprehensive, evidence-based, and balanced strategies that promote healthier lifestyles, social well-being, and sustainable development. The Political Declaration reflects this approach by recognizing that the most effective path forward is to focus on reducing the harmful use of alcohol, rather than penalizing moderate and responsible consumption.
CEEV, whose delegation shared the wine sector’s perspective at the UN Multistakeholder Forum held in New York this May, welcomes UN’s confirmation of a whole-of-society approach. This framework rightly recognises the importance of engaging the private sector in addressing global health challenges.
The Political Declaration builds on previous global commitments, including the 2010 Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol and the 2022 Global Alcohol Action Plan, which have already delivered tangible results. Between 2010 and 2019, deaths linked to alcohol declined by over 20% worldwide, while alcohol-related disability decreased by around 17%. These results demonstrate that when science, evidence and cooperation guide solutions, meaningful progress is possible.
The European wine sector has contributed to these efforts and plays an active role in reducing the harmful use of alcohol through its long-term commitment to fostering a sustainable culture of wine. Central to this participation is the Wine in Moderation initiative launched in 2008, which promotes responsible drinking patterns and helps consumers make informed choices.
Looking ahead, CEEV will remain committed, within the framework of the whole-of-society approach, to actively supporting efforts to reduce the harmful use of alcohol and to promoting moderation in wine consumption, while safeguarding Europe’s wine heritage and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the wine sector.
