Big Alcohol Big Interference – Conversation with the President of Movendi International

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Episode description:

In this eye-opening episode of The Unnecessary Harm Podcast, we sit down with Kristina Spikova, President of Movendi International, a global network of over 170 organizations fighting alcohol harm across 63 countries. As we celebrate Dry July, Kristina reveals the shocking truth about Big Alcohol’s predatory tactics and their devastating impact on global development.

With her extensive experience in public health advocacy, Kristina exposes how alcohol directly affects 15 out of 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, from poverty and hunger to gender equality and climate change. She discusses the alarming rise in alcohol-related violence, the industry’s deceptive marketing targeting women and children, and the environmental destruction caused by alcohol production – including the staggering 270 liters of water needed to produce just one liter of beer.

Kristina also highlights recent scientific research which underscores the health risks associated with alcohol consumption, noting its classification as a Group 1 carcinogen, alongside substances like tobacco and asbestos. From the WHO’s “best buys” policies to Big Alcohol’s corporate interference at the UN level, this conversation provides crucial insights into the global fight against one of the world’s most harmful legal substances.