Belarusians’ affinity towards strong drinks has put us on a pedestal among alcoholics of other nations. Two years ago, the World Health Organization stated that alcohol consumption in Belarus is 17.5 liters per person. However, this assessment the Health Ministry does not entirely agree with this assessment.
“I cannot say exactly at what place we are, but we have definitely improved the opinion of various international organizations about us,” said the Chief Psychiatrist Ivan Kanarazau.
“What a lousy life we have!”
According to official figures, last year the sale of alcohol was 9 liters per capita – 2 liters less than in the year before. To check these figures, we headed to one of the capital’s shops. “There is no big difference. People drink as much as they used to,” said the saleswoman.
It’s all due to our life right now. It is not that difficult, but it is lousy,” said the young man.
Counterfeit products from Russia are a problem for the public purse
The secret of the best indicators may be hiding in the problem of counterfeit alcohol, which is not included in the statistics. Last year the Interior Ministry noted the rise of illegal drinks from the eastern border.
“We estimate the illegal alcohol market due mainly to the expansion of the Russian Federation as $200 million per year. This is something that passed by the official legal sales,” noted Eduard Nikitsin of the Belarusian Interior Ministry.
Fault lies with the State
Belarusian Christian Democracy party which has conducted a special anti-alcohol campaign for years also does not share the positive attitude of the Health Ministry.
According to Volha Kavalkova it is the State’s guilt, because it is not making the necessary steps to limit the sale and consumption of alcohol. Thee authorities did not accept a single offer of the party on this issue.
After all, not only Belarusians but also our budget depends on the bad habits. In the capital alone, 2 alcohol producers are among the 10 largest taxpayers.
Volha Zharnasiek, Belsat
