### WHO Advocates for Increased Taxes on Sugary Drinks and Alcohol to Combat Global Health Issues The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a strong call for governments worldwide to significantly raise taxes on sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages. This initiative aims to reduce consumption of these products, which are linked to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The WHO emphasizes that low taxation has made these harmful products more affordable, particularly for children and young adults, exacerbating public health challenges globally. The organization highlights that effective health taxes can not only curb consumption but also generate revenue for healthcare systems, thereby saving lives and improving health outcomes [https://punchng.com/who-urges-govts-to-raise-taxes-on-sugary-drinks-alcohol][https://indianexpress.com/article/health-wellness/who-higher-taxes-sugary-drinks-alcohol-save-lives-lauds-india-tobacco-tax-push-10472498]. ### Structure of the WHO's Argument for Tax Increases 1. **Current Taxation Landscape**: - Many countries have low or outdated tax rates on sugary drinks and alcohol, making these products more accessible. - The WHO reports that at least 116 countries tax sugary drinks, but many high-sugar products remain untaxed [https://www.who.int/news/item/13-01-2026-cheaper-drinks-will-see-a-rise-in-noncommunicable-diseases-and-injuries]. 2. **Health Implications**: - Increased consumption of sugary drinks and alcohol is linked to various health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. - The WHO warns that these health problems disproportionately affect children and young adults [https://www.anews.com.tr/health/2026/01/14/cheap-sugary-alcoholic-drinks-fuel-diseases-especially-among-children]. 3. **Economic Considerations**: - Weak tax systems allow harmful products to remain cheap, placing a financial burden on health systems due to preventable diseases. - Higher taxes can provide governments with funds to invest in health services and education [https://www.khaleejtimes.com/world/who-urges-tax-hike-sugary-drinks-alcohol]. 4. **Global Recommendations**: - The WHO advocates for a redesign of tax policies as part of its "3 by 35" initiative, which aims to increase the real prices of tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks by 2035 [https://www.who.int/initiatives/3-by-35]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Affordability Trends**: - Sugary drinks have become more affordable in 62 countries since 2022, indicating a need for tax adjustments [https://www.straitstimes.com/world/who-says-low-taxes-are-making-sugary-drinks-alcohol-more-affordable]. - **Taxation Statistics**: - At least 167 countries impose taxes on alcoholic beverages, yet many have not adjusted these taxes for inflation, leading to unchanged prices [https://www.who.int/news/item/13-01-2026-cheaper-drinks-will-see-a-rise-in-noncommunicable-diseases-and-injuries]. - **Health Outcomes**: - Countries that have implemented higher taxes on sugary drinks, like the UK, have seen reductions in sugar consumption and improved health metrics among children [https://themalaytribune.com/who-calls-for-higher-taxes-as-sugary-drinks-alcohol-getting-cheaper-while-health-costs-soar]. ### Conclusion: The Urgency of Action In summary, the WHO's call for increased taxes on sugary drinks and alcohol is a critical public health initiative aimed at reducing consumption and preventing disease. The organization outlines the following key points: 1. **Current taxation is insufficient**: Low tax rates make harmful products more affordable, contributing to rising health issues. 2. **Health risks are significant**: Increased consumption leads to obesity, diabetes, and other NCDs, particularly among vulnerable populations. 3. **Economic benefits of higher taxes**: Increased taxation can generate revenue for health services and reduce the burden on healthcare systems. 4. **Global action is necessary**: The WHO's "3 by 35" initiative aims to make these products less affordable over time, promoting better health outcomes. By addressing these issues through effective taxation, governments can play a pivotal role in safeguarding public health and reducing the economic impact of preventable diseases [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/business/3768231-taxing-sugary-drinks-and-alcohol-a-health-imperative].