The OASI Foundation of Gozo has put forward 25 suggestions and recommendations in response to the National Alcohol Policy.
The Foundation said that Malta has taken an important step forward in drafting the National Alcohol Policy (2025). However, it noted that for “real, measurable change to occur, enforcement must be prioritised and resourced. Prevention, regulation, and education must work in synergy.”
The OASI Foundation said that it stands ready to collaborate with the government, schools, local councils, and civil society to make this policy “a living, impactful framework.”
The Foundation went on to explained that its aim with this report is “to foster a more socially aware, better educated community, one that cultivates a healthier, more balanced relationship with alcohol.”
“We believe that, like a ripple effect, the implementation and serious enforcement of these recommendations will lead to a cultural shift: one where responsible attitudes toward alcohol are no longer reactive, but deeply rooted in awareness, prevention, and accountability,” stated the Foundation.
It concluded by saying that “this evolving mindset will, in turn, strengthen public support for such policies and encourage long-term behavioural change across generations.”
The 25 suggestions and recommendations are as follows:
Suggestion No. 1 – Recognise Alcohol as the ‘Primary Problem’
Suggestion No. 2 – Recognising and Addressing Families’ Needs in Policy Development
Suggestion No. 3 – Require Establishments Serving Alcohol and Other Substances, to Attend Training Seminars on Substance Abuse Every Three Years (similar to first aid certification).
Suggestion No. 4 – Creating Consistency in Underage Drinking Prevention
Suggestion No. 5 – Raising the Legal Drinking Age to 21
Suggestion No. 6 – Mandatory Alcohol Testing in Domestic Violence and Peace-Breaking Incidents
Suggestion No. 7 – Implement Comprehensive Alcohol Pricing Policies
Suggestion No. 8 – Strengthen Enforcement of Alcohol Sale Hours
Suggestion No. 9 – Implementing the PAVE Project
Suggestion No. 10 – Alcohol-Free Zones: Safeguarding Minors, Youth and Community Wellbeing
Suggestion No. 11 – Revise Legal Frameworks
Suggestion No. 12 – Mandatory and Random Breathalyser Tests
Suggestion No. 13 – Ban Alcohol Promotion During Celebrations Involving Moving Vehicles
Suggestion No. 14 – Additional Safeguarding when Minors are Present During Celebrations Involving Moving Vehicles
Suggestion No. 15 – No Alcohol or Alcohol-Related Products are to be Allowed in the Driving or Seating Compartments of any Vehicle
Suggestion No. 16 – License Revocation for Repeat Offenders
Suggestion No. 17 – Regular Inspections at Public Events
Suggestion No. 18 – Spot Checks at Events
Suggestion No. 19 – Incorporate Professional Agencies into Policy Drafting Committees, Training Providers, and School Curricula Contributors.
Suggestion No. 20 – Mandatory Alcohol (and Addiction) Education in PSCD Curriculum
Suggestion No. 21 – Train All Frontline Personnel to Identify and Respond to Alcohol-Related Situations
Suggestion No. 22 – Ban Alcohol Advertising in Public Spaces and on Social Media
Suggestion No. 23 – Change the Narrative
Suggestion No. 24 – Develop a Comprehensive Legal Framework Specific to Alcohol – Parallel to the Existing Laws for Controlled Substances
Suggestion No. 25 – Establish a National Database for Tracking Repeat Offenses and Treatment Compliance for Court-Mandated Rehabilitation.
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