Dear Members, partners and supporters, the IOGT International World Congress in 2010 clearly pointed out the importance for IOGT International to support and build an effective network and bring together organizations, institutions and foundations from all over the world for international fellowship and furtherance of the temperance platform. This work has had the highest priority during 2011.
The reason for that is the growing pressure on people and communities to start using alcohol – this is particularly relevant in developing societies, and the need to defend an alcohol free life.
Many children are also victims of the consequences of alcohol use by others, especially family members, resulting in family breakdown, economic and emotional poverty, neglect, abuse, violence and lost opportunities.
Children and young people constitute an important target group for the alcohol industry because they represent the market of tomorrow, the drinkers of the future. Creating brand allegiance among children and young people is an investment the industry is sure to cash in on later.
That’s why there is an urgent need to counterbalance that development. IOGT International has an important role to play in that regard. A strong base and mobilizing broad support for our work and concerted actions are needed. That’s the big challenge for the future.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very healthy and Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Thank you all for your wonderful contribution to the success of our work, and long may we continue to bring peace, hope and prosperity to those who need it the most.
