Encouraging moderation in retirement festivities

The Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) has launched a nationwide campaign encouraging alcohol-free retirement parties for state officials. The initiative seeks to redefine the tradition of retirement celebrations by emphasising safety, health, and respect.

The campaign, which is being conducted in partnership with civic and education organisations, aims to address the significant concern of alcohol consumption in Thailand. According to data from the National Statistical Office, among Thais aged 45-59, 41.9% consume alcohol, with 2.8 million identified as regular drinkers. The number of drinkers in Thailand increased from 16 million in 2021 to 20.9 million in 2024, accounting for 35.2% of the population.

The campaign is based on research published in The Lancet Public Health, a publication of the World Health Organisation, which states that no level of alcohol consumption is considered safe. Additionally, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen linked to at least seven types of cancer, including oesophageal, liver, and breast cancer.

Ministries have issued circulars urging their agencies to hold alcohol-free events. Teera Watcharapranee, director of the StopDrink Network, has stated that both the Interior and Education ministries have endorsed the campaign. Aphisa Mahaman, manager of the Teachers' Network Against Harmful Activities, has stated that more than 100 organisations, including schools and local administrative bodies, have backed the campaign.

Alcohol-free gatherings, according to Aphisa Mahaman, create a warm and respectful atmosphere that truly honours retiring officials. Retirement parties with alcohol can lead to incidents such as quarrels, drunk-driving accidents, and negative outcomes. The move represents a big cultural shift, especially considering that around 10,000 officials are expected to retire from the two ministries this year.

Promoting alcohol-free retirement celebrations could help shift social norms towards safer and more dignified practices in Thai society. However, the extent to which the campaign will be adopted by the officials remains uncertain. Mr. Teera warned that this age group is at risk of long-term health problems due to decades of alcohol use.

Despite the ongoing campaign, alcohol consumption remains a concern in Thailand. The research from The Lancet Public Health and the IARC was not specified as to who conducted it. It is hoped that the campaign will encourage a healthier and more respectful approach to retirement celebrations in the country.