Healthier and more inclusive professional gatherings without alcohol: a short guide

Overview

This guide from the WHO Regional Office for Europe offers practical guidance for planning alcohol-free meetings, conferences, receptions, and network and workplace events. Alcohol is a leading risk factor for disease and social harm. In addition to health risks and safety concerns, its presence in professional environments can create discomfort and exclusion. Designed for workplaces and institutions committed to well-being, this guide outlines the benefits of alcohol-free gatherings, offers tips for inclusive planning and respectful communication, and includes a ready-to-use checklist, beverage recipes, sample activities and communication materials. Alcohol-free events are not about restriction; they are a way to demonstrate leadership in health promotion and optimize the health of the workforce. This guide helps make that vision a reality.