ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN THE CONTEXT OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC: IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC POLICY

Abstract

The Czech Republic has long been among the countries with the highest alcohol consumption in the world. Almost a fifth of the Czech population is categorised as problematic or high-risk alcohol drinkers. Restrictions taken against the spread of coronavirus have affected the lives of millions of people. Due to economic insecurity and severe mental health consequences, potential changes in behavioural and consumption patterns might also occur. The aim of this article is therefore to analyse available research and data related to alcohol consumption in the Czech Republic during the COVID-19 pandemic (the year 2020). Within this research, methods of time series analyses, comparison and synthesis were applied. Macroeconomic data indicated a decline in overall consumption, which however is affected by reduced tourism. On the other hand, microeconomic data showed an increase in average consumption when people with intense patterns of substance use increased their level of use. If the situation is not sufficiently addressed, serious socio-economic risks might occur, including increased costs for the healthcare system.