WHO Calls for Higher Taxes on Sugary Drinks and Alcohol to Combat Health Issues

The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging governments worldwide to significantly increase taxes on sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages. Citing two new global reports, the WHO states that low or poorly designed tax systems make these products too affordable, contributing to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and injuries, particularly among young people. The organization advocates for stronger health taxes as a tool to reduce harmful consumption, generate revenue for public services, and promote healthier choices, as part of its '3 by 35' initiative aiming to raise real prices of tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks by 2035.