From the beginning, COVID-19 regulations in South Africa have included restrictions on the availability or alcohol. The result has been a significant drop in alcohol-related harm. This supports the view of the World Health Organisation that the three ‘best buys’ for reducing alcohol-related harm are: reduced availability; higher pricing; and banning alcohol advertising. Importantly, the restrictions have resulted in a reduction in violence, specifically gun-shot wounds and gender-based violence. Can we make this a new, permanent reality for South Africans?
Sonke Gender Justice, Gun Free South Africa and Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance in South Africa (SAAPA SA)
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