International Alliance for Responsible Drinking Inc.

Overview

The International Alliance for Responsible Drinking Inc. (IARD) is a not-for-profit organization based in the United States, with significant international reach and influence. It is dedicated to reducing harmful drinking practices globally and promoting responsible drinking behaviors. IARD works collaboratively with governments, civil society, and key stakeholders in the alcohol industry to address the complex public health issue of alcohol misuse.

History and Development

IARD was launched in January 2015, building on the legacy of previous initiatives such as the International Center for Alcohol Policies (ICAP) and the Global Alcohol Producers Group (GAPG). The organization serves as a successor to these entities, continuing and expanding their efforts to combat harmful drinking.

Objectives and Activities

IARD's primary objectives include:

• Reducing Harmful Drinking: IARD works towards reducing underage drinking, strengthening marketing codes of practice, providing consumer information, reducing drinking and driving, and collaborating with retailers to minimize harmful drinking behaviors.
• Promoting Responsible Drinking: The organization fosters a deeper understanding of responsible alcohol consumption and supports global initiatives to reduce alcohol-related harms.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: IARD partners with international bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations, and regional and local stakeholders to implement policies and programs aimed at minimizing the adverse effects of alcohol misuse.

Governance and Membership

IARD is supported by leading global producers of beer, wine, and spirits. These member companies include notable names like Anheuser-Busch InBev, Diageo, and Heineken. The organization operates through a governance structure that ensures diversity and inclusivity, with members from various sectors contributing to its mission.

International Recognition and Impact

IARD is recognized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC) as a non-governmental organization with special consultative status. This recognition reflects its commitment to supporting UN goals and initiatives, including Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.5, which focuses on strengthening the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including alcohol misuse.

Producers' Commitments

As the secretariat to the Beer, Wine and Spirits Producers’ Commitments to Reduce Harmful Drinking, IARD plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts across the industry to meet specific targets and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) designed to reduce alcohol-related harm. These commitments are monitored and reported on annually by independent auditors.

Resources and Policy Tools

IARD develops and disseminates policy tools and resources aimed at reducing harmful drinking practices. These resources are informed by scientific evidence and international best practices in alcohol policy and health. The organization also supports UN member states by providing data and insights on alcohol health trends, aiding in policy formulation and strategy development.