Contribution to Youth Protection through Alcohol Purchases
In the heart of Germany, the city of Erfurt is taking significant steps to ensure a safer environment for its younger residents. The old town is witnessing an expansion of alcohol-free zones, with the children's and youth library on Market Street now included in the list.
This move is part of a broader initiative to promote youth protection, a topic that has been gaining attention in various regions across the state. In some areas, such as Wittenberg district, sales staff are being trained to react correctly and friendly in everyday situations involving alcohol or tobacco.
The training, which incorporates interactive methods like role-playing, quiz questions, and practical exercises, is aimed at preparing trainees for the Youth Protection Act. This legislation, which prohibits young people from buying spirits, is being sensitized to sales staff through campaigns.
However, the focus is not just on test purchases. Prevention and awareness are considered more crucial, as stated by Michael Wilde from the Coordination Office for Addiction Prevention Saxony.
The discussion around children and youth protection is not new. It was recently featured on "The News Radio" on 17 September 2025 at 06:53 Uhr. The ARD Mediathek also offers more content on this topic.
In Magdeburg, official test purchases are conducted incognito to monitor sales bans. Unfortunately, in 2024, out of 32 test purchases, alcohol or tobacco was sold to young people in 12 cases.
Thuringia, like many regions, faces a shortage of young alcohol test buyers. Yet, controls are still carried out to maintain compliance with legal age restrictions and prevent the illegal sale of alcoholic beverages to minors.
The consequences of such violations can be severe. Penalties range from fines of 500 to 3,000 euros, and repeat offenses could lead to a final business ban.
Moreover, the issue of alcohol placement in supermarkets is a concern. In some places, high-proof alcohol in small bottles is placed right next to chocolate bars, which can be problematic for alcoholics.
To further educate the public, resources like the video "Between Dependence and Party Mood - Everyday Drug Alcohol" are available on the Middle German Broadcast's website. This video discusses the ubiquity of alcohol in society and its status as a drug and nerve poison that can make people seriously ill.
As cities and states continue to implement measures to protect their youth, the importance of education, awareness, and prevention becomes increasingly clear.
