International Cooperation
EHYT is involved in international networks with a number of other organisations. International cooperation plays a significant role in the efficient prevention and reduction of the harmful effects of substance abuse, gaming and gambling.
National and international politics and decision-making have a strong impact on substance abuse prevention. For example, regulations related to the European Union’s single market influence Finland’s public policies on alcohol and tobacco.
The World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the EU have all emphasised the global and cross-border nature of substance-related harm. International cooperation plays a key role in preventing the use of illegal substances and reducing the harm they cause.
Such cooperation is also important because international networks provide access to information on harm reduction, gambling and gaming, related research, and effective methods. Collaboration enables the exchange of experiences across borders and supports joint advocacy efforts. Networking is a valuable tool for staying informed and anticipating future developments.
Regional Cooperation with the Neighbouring Countries
Finland has long been recognised for its pioneering public health policies on alcohol and tobacco. In Finland, non-governmental efforts to promote health and well-being are part of a strong civil society, where civic organisations actively participate in and influence decision-making.
The various harms associated with substance use increase the need for cooperation, especially with neighbouring countries. EHYT maintains close contact with public health authorities in these countries and organises expert meetings and seminars on substance-related policy issues.
In recent years, alcohol policies that support public health and well-being have been significantly strengthened in Estonia and other Baltic countries. EHYT maintains active ties with Estonian public health authorities, as the exchange of information and experiences benefits both sides. For example, the majority of alcohol brought into Finland by travellers comes from Estonia, which has notable policy implications for both countries.
In Finland, the smuggling of snus from neighbouring countries is a growing concern. Addressing this issue requires cooperation with authorities and organisations in Sweden and Russia.
Strong Global Connections
EHYT has grown into a strong national organisation whose expertise is recognised and valued both in Finland and internationally. Its networks with international expert organisations and close ties with researchers and professionals in the fields of substance use and gambling strengthen EHYT’s expertise and support its national work. International cooperation also provides a benchmark for the organisation’s own development.
Through international cooperation, EHYT gains visibility for its expertise and perspectives, increasing global awareness of both the organisation and Finland.
EHYT is a member of the following international organisations and networks:
Correlation – European Harm Reduction Network, which aims to improve the rights and services of drug users. EHYT is a Focal Point member of the network.
EAPN-Fin – European Anti Poverty Network Finland part of the broader European Anti-Poverty Network working to combat poverty and social exclusion.
EGHPN – European Gambling Harm Prevention Network, which focusses on preventing and reducing gambling-related harms at individual, communal and social levels. EHYT chairs the network.
ENSP – European Network for Smoking and Tobacco Prevention, a non-profit organisation promoting tobacco prevention across Europe.
Eurocare – European Alcohol Policy Alliance, a network of health NGOs from 25 EU Member States. Eurocare is the EU’s most prominent alcohol policy network.
EuroNet – European Addiction Prevention Network, which promotes cooperation in addiction prevention. The network includes members from 17 European countries, with EHYT representing Finland.
GAPA – The Global Alcohol Policy Alliance a global NGO network aiming to reduce alcohol-related harm. EHYT participates in GAPA through its Eurocare membership.
NordAN – Nordic Alcohol and Drug Policy Network which promotes the prevention and reduction of alcohol- and drug-related harm in the Nordic and Baltic regions. EHYT has a representative on NordAN’s board.
Movendi International a global non-profit organisation working for development through alcohol prevention, with over 170 member organisations in more than 60 countries.
SNSUS – Stiftelsen Nordiska Sällskapet för Upplysning om Spelberoende or The Nordic Society Foundation for Information about Problem Gambling, which operates across the Nordic countries.
In addition to these networks, EHYT has been invited to serve as a consultant in several international forums. The organisation has participated in consultations by the World Health Organization (WHO) and hearings by the European Commission.
EHYT has also served as an expert in the Northern Dimension Partnership in Public Health and Social Well-being (NDPHS).
EHYT actively follows international research on substance use and gambling through networks such as the Kettil Bruun Society for Social and Epidemiological Research on Alcohol.