The Danish government is restricting the kinds of alcohol those under 18 can purchase. Previously, 16- to 17-year olds could buy beer, wine and spirits; since 1 April, they can only buy beer or lower-alcohol drinks, up to 6% by volume. Now, you have to be 18 or older to buy drinks with an alcohol content of more than 6%.

This restriction is a part of the government’s prevention plan to raise awareness about alcohol use. This is due to growing concerns about the dangers of alcohol in Danish society.

This policy limits teenagers’ access to beverages like wine, and even a Danish liquor made specifically for younger consumers called Små Sure.

These changes affect the social and emotional aspects of Danish society. Denmark is known for its less restrictive attitudes towards alcohol and drinking habits, especially in comparison with other Nordic countries. For example, in Sweden, you have to be 20 to purchase drinks with an alcohol content of 3.5% or above. Additionally, you can only buy it in a state-run shop.

But in Denmark, alcohol is easily purchased at all times of the day and in all kinds of stores. Over time, such accessibility developed a relaxed drinking culture where teenagers get introduced to drinking by their parents, usually in their own home, around the age of 14.

This has led to Danes of all ages embracing the habit of casual drinking. However, many people think such a relationship with alcohol is unhealthy, and the authorities have long tried to raise awareness about the potential risks of alcohol for young people. Danish adolescents have a reputation of being the “booziest” in Europe. Concerningly, a 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) report found that 42% of 15-year-olds have been intoxicated at least twice.

People in Denmark are reacting differently to the changes in the law.

Reddit user @HeNibblesAtComments shared their concerns in a thread about the topic: “I think it’s stupid to differentiate based on age percentages. Either it’s okay to get drunk, or it’s not. I also think it’s so hypocritical how politicians handle Danes’ alcohol abuse. We always rank at the top in alcohol consumption per capita, but it’s only the young people who have to change their habits. That’s spineless.”

Some health experts believe that the issue with alcohol consumption is rooted deeper than just the ability to purchase alcohol.

Denmark has also introduced stricter penalties for not complying with the new legislation. Since 1 January 2025, retailers selling tobacco, alcohol or nicotine goods to those under age have faced a fine of 50,000 Danish krone (c. $7,750) for the first offence.

Many wonder whether this is the correct approach towards health issues related to alcohol abuse in Denmark, which is rooted deeply in historical habits and traditions built over centuries. Some are concerned that such legislation will limit freedom of choice and the ability to build a healthy drinking culture in Denmark.