Annual societal costs linked to addictive behaviors in the Czech Republic are estimated to range between CZK 150 and 250 billion, amounting to as much as 10% of the state budget. Experts at a roundtable organized by the Institute for Rational Addiction Policies, the Institute for Mental Health and Addictions Studies, and Anglo-American University strongly urged strengthening scientifically validated and economically rational approaches within Czech and European addiction policies. Implementing such measures could save billions for the state and insurance companies.
“As an abstainer, I recognize that complete abstinence as an ideal solution is unrealistic. However, what we do know for certain is that realistic risk reduction policies—known as harm reduction—are effective, whether concerning drugs, tobacco, alcohol, or gambling. At the same time, without investing in prevention and research, we will continue cyclically dealing only with consequences, not causes,” stated Jindřich Vobořil, Chairman of the Board of the Institute for Rational Addiction Policies. He added, “The harm reduction approach must be systematic, encompassing market alternatives by substituting riskier products with less harmful ones, including appropriate tax incentives, substitution treatments, and brief healthcare interventions.”
A strong emphasis was also placed on supporting effective primary prevention, particularly among children and adolescents. “The risks associated with new psychoactive substances, energy drinks, and digital addictions profoundly impact young people’s development. Recent months and years clearly show the devastating effects on children’s mental and physical health,” said Renáta Zajíčková, Member of Parliament and Health Committee member. “Teachers, healthcare professionals, and addiction specialists are raising alarms and demanding a shift in addressing these emerging addictions. Effective prevention and sensible regulation are proven tools. If we don’t want to lose the upcoming young generation, we must massively invest in prevention, implement sensible regulations, and transform our society’s overall approach,” she stressed. Zajíčková also called for increased inter-ministerial collaboration among health, education, interior, and justice ministries.
Results from the National Research on Tobacco and Alcohol Use 2024 clearly indicate that abstinence-focused policies are insufficient for addressing the situation in the Czech Republic. Pragmatic acceptance is necessary—for example, that a portion of the population will continue to consume nicotine products and alcohol—highlighting the need for expanded preventive interventions and integrated harm reduction practices. In practice, this approach involves supporting transitions to less risky alternatives for drug users and smokers and implementing systematic measures addressing alcohol consumption, where nearly one-fifth of adults are at risk.
“Data on tobacco is encouraging. The decline in traditional smoking, coupled with increased use of electronic cigarettes, demonstrates that people actively seek less harmful alternatives, aligning precisely with harm reduction principles. Importantly, more than one-third of e-cigarette users are former smokers, and the shift primarily involves adult smokers who are already addicted,” stated Dr. Ladislav Csémy, President of the Institute for Mental Health and Addictions Studies. He added, “This confirms that alternatives fulfill their intended role, serving not as gateways to nicotine for newcomers but as functional tools for those aiming to reduce addiction-related risks.”
However, anxiety, depression, and problematic behaviors linked to digital technologies are sharply increasing. Despite this, systematic prevention support and services addressing digital and non-substance addictions remain inadequate. “Addiction and mental health are deeply interconnected. Without an integrated approach, we will continue failing those most in need. Harm reduction is not only pragmatic but also economically rational in reducing harm and promoting stability,” was emphasized during the discussion.
Experts concluded by calling for the allocation of at least 2% of revenue from excise taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and gambling to prevention, harm reduction, and treatment. Such allocation would provide long-term, predictable support for activities aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of addictive products, thereby ensuring an effective and sustainable drug policy for the 21st century.