Are Nondrinkers Missing from the Picture?

Abstract

WHO statistics indicate that half the world's population does not drink alcohol. With a Western outlook this fact is often overlooked. Findings: The article explores the global drinking patterns focusing on non-drinking and the global forces that contribute towards change. The large segment of non-drinking population is beneficial for public health but it is also seen as a great potential for the international alcoholic beverage industry. Conclusion: The forces of globalization towards conformity and a global mono-culture deprived of cultural diversity also affects non-drinking populations, to the detriment of public health.

Keywords :

• Alcohol consumption patterns
• abstinence
• alcohol marketing
• globalization

Declaration of Interest:

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.

THE AUTHORS

Øystein Bakke, MA Political Science, University of Oslo, Senior adviser, FORUT, Campaign for Development and Solidarity, a Norwegian international development nongovernmental organization specializing in alcohol and drugs as development issues. Web: www.forut.no/en and www.add-resources.org

Notice of Correction:

Changes have been made to this article since its original online publication date of December 29, 2014.