The German government is set to prohibit supervised alcohol consumption for 14- and 15-year-olds, responding to growing concerns over the health risks associated with underage drinking.

In a significant policy shift, the German Cabinet has approved a draft law aimed at banning the practice known as ‘supervised drinking’ for minors aged 14 and 15. This change comes as part of a broader effort to strengthen protections for young people against the dangers of alcohol consumption.

Currently, the law allows minors to consume beer and wine in the presence of a legal guardian, a provision that has been a longstanding tradition in German culture. However, Family Minister Karin Prien emphasized that this exception undermines the government’s objectives for better addiction prevention and fails to adequately protect youth from the serious health and social consequences of alcohol use.

The proposed legislation will now be reviewed by the Bundestag, where further discussions will take place. The existing legal framework already sets the minimum age for public consumption and purchase of alcoholic beverages at 16, with stricter regulations in place for stronger drinks. Health ministers across the country have previously advocated for such a ban, highlighting the urgent need to address the risks associated with early exposure to alcohol.