Public figure Andrei Kovalev advocates bold steps to reduce the number of people affected by alcohol dependence in Russia. He points to earlier drug treatment facilities as a reference and argues for free support for those struggling with alcohol use disorders.
“The decline in addiction rates hinges on applying decisive measures”, Kovalev told a television channel. He notes that the most troubling aspect of the situation is the considerable harm caused by heavy drinking. He recalls that in past eras there were drug dispensaries where individuals were isolated and subjected to stringent procedures, suggesting that tough approaches yielded visible results.
The social activist recalls a period when such medical facilities administered potent drugs to patients, a practice he contends involved injections that, together with alcohol, could lead to fatalities. He argues that these methods achieved a form of deterrence and containment, and that their perceived effectiveness lay in their firmness and immediacy.
According to Kovalev, there is currently no equivalent drug treatment clinic in operation. This absence, he claims, leaves treatment decisions in the hands of families or the individuals themselves, which may delay or complicate the path to recovery. He stresses that free assistance should be available at centers across Russia so that relatives of people with alcohol dependence have accessible options for support and treatment coordination.
Rosstat data indicate a rise in reported cases of alcohol dependence in Russia for the first time in a decade. In 2022, about 54,200 people were diagnosed with clinical alcohol dependence. Experts attribute this uptick to a combination of factors, including the global pandemic, ongoing socio-economic pressures, and heightened geopolitical tensions, all of which may contribute to stress, vulnerability, and patterns of alcohol use. The report emphasizes the need for robust public health responses and accessible care pathways to address this growing issue (Source: Rosstat data).
Some observers suggest revisiting historical approaches to addiction treatment, reflecting on what worked and what did not, and proposing models that balance safety, ethics, and effectiveness. The discussion centers on how communities, families, and health systems can collaborate to offer compassionate, evidence-based care that respects individuals while addressing the broader public health impact of alcohol misuse. Advocates argue for transparent guidelines, patient rights protections, and sustained funding for prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services. In this framework, screening, early intervention, and post-treatment support emerge as key components of a comprehensive strategy to reduce harm and promote recovery (as cited in policy discussions).
Experts emphasize that any policy or program should prioritize harm reduction, access to care, and the dignity of those affected. The aim is to create an environment where people feel supported to seek help without stigma or fear, while ensuring that treatments align with current medical standards and ethical considerations. The overall objective remains clear: to lower the incidence of alcohol-related harm and to provide effective, accessible paths to recovery for all who need them.