Press coverage 2023
The Austrian Economics Center recently featured the 2023 edition of the Nanny State Index. In their article, the AEC explored the main conclusions of the Index, highlighting the increasing involvement of bureaucratic forces in the daily lives of citizens across Europe in most countries.
The 2023 Nanny State Index was featured in Politico’s London Playbook. The section highlighted that Britain has the strictest regulations on tobacco and the second most stringent controls on food and drink among European countries.
The Parliament Magazine featured results from the Nanny State Index and provided an overview of the pan-European trend toward increasing paternalism in the lifestyle sector. The article highlighted that stringent regulations on tobacco, e-cigarettes, alcohol, and food and soft drinks are steadily increasing in scope and volume across the continent despite their lack of efficacy in achieving public heath targets.
The European Conservative recently released an article discussing the results of the 2023 Nanny State Index, with a specific focus on the tobacco and nicotine controls amongst the countries to explore the prevailing trends of paternalism across Europe. The article praises those found within the freer half of the Index and explores the reasons behind the higher representation of Scandinavian and Eastern European countries in the less-free section.
The Bulgarian news outlet Econ.bg recently shared the results of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article emphasises the inefficiency of paternalistic policymaking in accomplishing its desired goals, such as mitigating public health risks related to specific products.
The Bulgarian news outlet “On Air Bulgaria” recently reported on the findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article focuses on the growing tendency of European governments to introduce paternalistic policies that regulate people’s lifestyles, sometimes at the cost of personal freedoms. Furthermore, the article explores Bulgaria’s specific rankings and outcomes in the index.
Cera, an economic news outlet in Bulgaria, released an article providing a summary of the key findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article explores the persistence of restrictive policymaking trends in Bulgaria and throughout Europe, noting that such efforts have continued even after the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The article presents relevant information from the Nanny State Index to support its analysis.
The Bulgarian News Agency has released an article discussing the results of the 2023 Nanny State Index, with a specific focus on Bulgaria’s ranking and the prevailing trends of paternalism in Europe. The article praises Bulgaria for its position within the freer half of the Index and explores the reasons behind the higher representation of Scandinavian and Eastern European countries in the less-free section.
The Bulgarian news outlet Investor highlighted the Nanny State Index in its article, which discusses the excessive and sometimes illogical attempts by politicians to regulate people’s lives through paternalistic measures. The article utilises numerous findings from the index to demonstrate how individual choices and the cost of living have been adversely affected by these policies across Europe.
In their article, Dnevik focused on the contribution of EPICENTER partner, the Institute for Market Economy, to the Nanny State Index. The article praised Bulgaria for its position near the freer end of the Index and presented the key findings from the report. It also analysed the reasons behind the increasing trend of paternalistic policies across Europe.
24Chasa, a Bulgarian news outlet, recently published an article presenting the findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article highlights Bulgaria’s consistent strong performance, which has been observed in previous editions of the index.
NGOBG, a Bulgarian news outlet, recently published an article presenting the findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article highlights Bulgaria’s consistent strong performance, which has been observed in previous editions of the index.
NGOBG, a Bulgarian news outlet, recently published an article presenting the findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article highlights Bulgaria’s consistent strong performance, which has been observed in previous editions of the index.
In an article by Classa, the impact of new regulations on e-cigarettes, alcohol and cigarette duties, and sugar tax in various European countries was examined, highlighting the resulting reduction in freedoms for citizens across the continent. By showcasing analyses from the Nanny State Index country breakdown, Classa illustrated how increased paternalism is part of a broader trend in Europe.
The Bulgarian news outlet Trud.bg recently shared the results of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article emphasises the inefficiency of paternalistic policymaking in accomplishing its desired goals, such as mitigating public health risks related to specific products.
Bulgarian news outlet ‘Pik’ recently shared the findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index, highlighting Bulgaria’s consistent strong performance in previous editions of the index.
The publication ‘BGlobal’ released an article presenting the key findings for Bulgaria and Europe. The article emphasizes Bulgaria’s continued status as one of Europe’s most liberal countries regarding lifestyle choices, which has been maintained since the previous index. Furthermore, the piece discusses the notable shifts in state paternalism across Europe.
Cyprus Mail, in a recent article, provided an analysis of Cyprus’ score in the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article aimed to shed light on the factors contributing to its less favourable ranking, examining the restrictions imposed on alcohol, food, soft drinks, tobacco, and e-cigarettes within the country.
In Roklen24, a Czech news outlet, an article titled “The Czech Republic has earned the reputation of the country of freedom” presented the results from the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article highlighted why Czechia consistently outperformed the majority of other European countries in terms of regulations on alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, and food and soft drinks. It provided various data points from the Index to support its claims.
In an article titled “Lifestyle regulation: The Czech Republic is one of the freest countries,” Czech news outlet Denik presented the findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article highlighted Czechia’s consistent outperformance compared to most European countries in terms of regulations concerning alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, and food and soft drinks. The article substantiated its claims with various data points from the Index.
Tero Lundstedt, the Content Production Manager at the Finnish think tank ‘Libera’, conducted an analysis of the key findings regarding Finland and Europe in the 2023 Nanny State Index. In his article, Tero explores the underlying reasons behind the inclination of several countries to expand the reach and extent of paternalistic measures in the lifestyle sector.
In the European Scientist, a renowned scientific outlet, this article used findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index to discuss how tobacco policymaking is becoming less grounded in fact and more in ideology – to the detriment of smokers across Europe. The piece explores how heavy-handed interventionism on lifestyle issues, like smoking, risks leaving populations poorer and less healthy.
The French outlet, ‘Le Point’, recently unpacking findings from the 2023 edition of the Nanny State Index. In the article, the author showcased the main findings from the report, showcasing how various European states are finding more ways to regulate what their citizens can eat, drink, smoke, and vape.
Boursorama, a French media outlet, presented the main pan-European and French conclusions from the latest Nanny State Index. The article noted the pan-European trend towards increased state paternalism in lifestyle affairs as well as France’s updated results within the index.
The renowned media giant, Yahoo!, recently featured the Nanny State Index in an article titled: “Alcohol, Tobacco… to what extent should their consumption be regulated?”. In the article, the author showcased the main findings from the report, showcasing how various European states are finding more ways to regulate what their citizens can eat, drink, smoke, and vape.
In Le Moci, an article used findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index to discuss how tobacco policymaking is becoming less grounded in fact and more in ideology – to the detriment of smokers across Europe. The piece explores how heavy-handed interventionism on lifestyle issues, like smoking, risks leaving populations poorer and less healthy.
The renowned French media giant, L’Opinion, recently featured an article from EPICENTER’s Cécile Phillippe in an article titled: “Behavioural and moralising regulations: today’s increasingly intrusive states”. In the article, Cécile showcased the main findings from the report, showcasing how France and various other European states are finding more ways to regulate what their citizens can eat, drink, smoke, and vape.
RMC TV, a French television news channel, presented the main pan-European and French conclusions from the latest Nanny State Index. The segment involved discussion surrounding the pan-European trend towards increased state paternalism in lifestyle affairs as well as France’s updated results within the index.
The French outlet, ‘Les Echos’, recently featured IEM’s Cécile Phillippe in an article unpacking findings from the 2023 edition of the Nanny State Index. In the article, Cécile showcased the main findings from the report, showcasing how various European states are finding more ways to regulate what their citizens can eat, drink, smoke, and vape.
The French news outlet ‘Nouvelles du Monde’ recently published an article on Romania’s failing paternalistic strategy to combat smoking, as evidenced by the fact that the number of smokers has risen since its enactment. In it, the author references the 2023 Nanny State Index as a source of information showcasing why such paternalistic measures consistently fail to achieve the desired results.
In Germanic News, the findings from the Nanny State Index regarding Britain were presented, highlighting the increasing trend of state paternalism across Europe. The article also discussed the reasons why paternalistic measures often fail to achieve the desired public health goals set by governments.
In Liberal Markets, the individual score of Greece and the pan-European analysis from the 2023 Nanny State Index were presented. The article provided an explanation as to why Greece improved its ranking by seven positions to 18th compared to the previous edition. It also highlighted the persistent restrictions in Greece regarding alcohol, food, soft drinks, tobacco, and e-cigarettes.
The Greek news outlet Sepe.gr conducted an analysis of Greece in their comprehensive review of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article explores the multiple factors, both domestic and international, that have contributed to Greece’s improvement of seven positions compared to the 2021 Index.
Reporter, in a recent article, provided an analysis of Greece’s score in the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article aimed to shed light on the factors contributing to Greece’s less favorable ranking, examining the restrictions imposed on alcohol, food, soft drinks, tobacco, and e-cigarettes within the country.
The article by ‘Magyar Hang’ delves into the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index concerning Hungary, highlighting how its dispiriting performance aligns with the broader pan-European trend of increasing state paternalism in the lifestyle sector. The article provides an exploration of these findings and their implications.
Zazoom, an Italian news outlet, presented the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index regarding Italy and the rest of Europe. The article discussed the potential consequences for Italian citizens if politicians in Italy persist in their attempts to encroach upon the freedoms currently enjoyed by the population.
Formiche, an Italian news outlet, highlighted Italy’s favourable performance in the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article delved into Italy’s relatively liberal approach to food and soft drink policies, as well as its moderate tax rates on alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, and food and drinks.
Head Topics, a well-known Italian news outlet, covered the findings of the Nanny State Index and included an analysis from the Bruno Leoni Institute, a member of EPICENTER. The article highlighted Italy’s consistent position within a small group of European countries that prioritise individual freedoms, attributing this to Italy’s lenient regulations regarding alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, and food and drink controls.
The Huffington Post Italy has published an article featuring EPICENTER’s Nanny State Index, which explores the trade-off between risk and freedom. The article discusses the limited effectiveness of regulations on alcohol, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and food and drinks in improving citizens’ life expectancy while encroaching on their liberty.
Los Piffero, an Italian news outlet, presented the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index regarding Italy and the rest of Europe. The article discussed the potential consequences for Italian citizens if politicians in Italy persist in their attempts to encroach upon the freedoms currently enjoyed by the population.
In the leadup to the COP10 meeting organised by the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, Italy’s ‘Libero Quotidiano’ reported on the joint letter issued by various EPICENTER experts to Swedish and British authorities encouraging that a reasoned stance be taken on non-conventional nicotine products.
Recently, Il Messaggero featured an article exploring the reasons why EPICENTER’s Carlo Stagnaro, Cécile Phillippe, Constantinos Saravakos, Radovan Durana, and Christopher Snowdon signed a joint letter to Swedish and British authorities on the future of tobacco control policies.
As the COP10 conference, orchestrated by the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, approaches, the Italian newspaper ‘Quotidiano Il Tempo’ highlights the collective message from a group of EPICENTER specialists. Their letter, directed at Swedish and British officials, advocates for a well-considered approach to unconventional nicotine products.
The Lithuanian news outlet ‘Ziniuradijas’ published an article discussing the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index concerning Lithuania’s dispiriting performance and Europe as a whole. The article explores how Lithuania is at the forefront of the trend toward increased state paternalism in the lifestyle sector observed throughout Europe.
The Lithuanian news outlet ’15min’ published an article discussing the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index concerning Europe as a whole. The article explores how Lithuania’s shift toward increased state paternalism in the lifestyle sector is in-line with a broader trend across European countries.
On the Lithuanian TV news channel ‘LNK’, Lithuanian Free Market Institute’s Senior Expert, Karolina Mickuté, appeared on a segment discussing Lithuania’s results in the 2023 Nanny State Index. During the interview, Karolina unpacked the various paternalist measures in the lifestyle sector which contributed to Lithuania’s undesirable score.
In a recent article by ‘Dlahandlu’, the effects of Poland’s newly implemented regulations on e-cigarettes, alcohol and cigarette duties, and sugar tax on the individual freedoms of Polish citizens were examined. The article drew upon various analyses from the 2023 Nanny State Index country breakdown to demonstrate how paternalistic policies in Poland align with a larger trend observed throughout Europe.
The article by ‘Wykop’ delves into the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index concerning Poland, highlighting how they align with the broader pan-European trend of increasing state paternalism in the lifestyle sector. The article provides an exploration of these findings and their implications.
The Polish news outlet ‘Do Rzecy’ conducted a detailed analysis of Poland in their comprehensive review of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article examines various factors, both domestic and international, that have influenced Poland’s disappointing performance in the latest index.
The Polish news outlet ‘NCZAS’ featured the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index regarding Poland and Europe as a whole. The article examined how Poland’s scores corresponded to the overall trend observed across Europe, which indicates an increase in state paternalism in the lifestyle sector.
The Polish news outlet ‘PortalSpozywczy’ highlighted the key conclusions from the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article showcased several findings from the index, illustrating the shift towards increased state paternalism in the lifestyle sector in Poland and many other European countries.
The comprehensive review of the 2023 Nanny State Index conducted by the Polish news outlet ‘NowyMarketing’ focused on Poland’s performance. The article delves into various factors, both domestic and international, that have contributed to Poland’s disappointing results in the latest index.
The Polish news outlet ‘Biznes.Trojmiasto’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Germany and Turkey, the most and least liberal countries on the list. There is an increase in paternalistic interventions across European countries. According to the Warsaw Enterprise Institute, the number of countries that currently impose taxes on soft drinks has doubled from 5 in 2017 to 12 in 2023. Poland currently has the highest tax on carbonated drinks when adjusted for income.
The Polish news outlet ‘FilaryBiznesu’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Germany and Turkey, the most and least liberal countries on the list. There is an increase in paternalistic interventions across European countries. Studies show that the number of countries that currently impose taxes on soft drinks has doubled from 5 in 2017 to 12 in 2023. The article notes that consumption policies are not effective and that instead of micro-regulating consumer behaviour, policymakers should focus on economic growth and prosperity to achieve the stated goal of improving the health of their citizens.
The Polish news outlet ‘Filary Biznesu’ conducted a detailed analysis of Poland in their comprehensive review of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article examines various factors, both domestic and international, that have influenced Poland’s disappointing performance in the latest index.
The Polish news outlet ‘Obserwator Gospodarczy’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on its different categories. Warsaw Enterprise Institute shows that the number of countries that currently impose taxes on soft drinks has doubled from 5 in 2017 to 12 in 2023. Despite the increase in consumption regulations across Europe, countries such as Germany, adopt a relatively liberal approach, scoring the lowest in the Nanny State Index. Poland has ranked 9th, mainly as a result of the high taxation on sweetened and non-alcoholic beverages.
The Polish news outlet ‘Gazeta Polska’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Germany and Turkey, the most and least liberal countries on the list. There is an increase in paternalistic interventions across European countries. Poland currently has the highest tax on carbonated drinks when adjusted for income.
The comprehensive review of the 2023 Nanny State Index conducted by the Polish news outlet ‘FPG24’ focused on Poland’s performance. The article delves into various factors, both domestic and international, that have contributed to Poland’s disappointing results in the latest index.
In a recent article by ‘Bezprawnik’, the effects of Poland’s newly implemented regulations on e-cigarettes, alcohol and cigarette duties, and sugar tax on the individual freedoms of Polish citizens were examined. The article drew upon various analyses from the 2023 Nanny State Index country breakdown to demonstrate how paternalistic policies in Poland align with a larger trend observed throughout Europe.
The Polish news outlet ‘Nowy Marketing’ conducted another detailed analysis of Poland in their comprehensive review of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article examines various factors, both domestic and international, that have influenced Poland’s disappointing performance in the latest index.
In Tomasz Cukiernik’s recent article, the effects of Poland’s newly implemented regulations on e-cigarettes, alcohol and cigarette duties, and sugar tax on the individual freedoms of Polish citizens were examined. The article drew upon various analyses from the 2023 Nanny State Index country breakdown to demonstrate how paternalistic policies in Poland align with a larger trend observed throughout Europe.
Findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index were featured in Forum Obywatelskiego Rozwoju’s (FOR) analysis of Poland’s restrictions on the purchase and sale of energy drinks. In the publication, the authors used the Nanny State Index to outline how paternalistic policymaking is an increasingly common trend across Europe.
The analysis of Romania’s performance in the 2023 Nanny State Index was recently featured in an article by ‘Adevarul’. The article discusses the reasons behind Romania’s underwhelming performance in the latest edition of the index. Additionally, it highlights the overall trend of increased state paternalism across Europe.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Stiri pe surse’ provided an analysis of Romania’s performance in the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article discusses the reasons behind Romania’s underwhelming performance in the latest edition. Additionally, it highlights a broader trend of increased state paternalism observed across Europe.
The Romanian news outlet ‘ Spotmedia’ published an article discussing the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index concerning Romania and Europe as a whole. The article explores how Romania’s scores align with the broader trend observed across Europe, which indicates an increase in state paternalism in the lifestyle sector. For the full article in Romanian, please access it here.
The Romanian news outlet ‘ Spotmedia’ published an article discussing the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index concerning Romania and Europe as a whole. The article explores how Romania’s scores align with the broader trend observed across Europe, which indicates an increase in state paternalism in the lifestyle sector. For the full article in Romanian, please access it here.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Stiri pe surse’ provided an analysis of Romania’s performance in the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article discusses the reasons behind Romania’s underwhelming performance in the latest edition. Additionally, it highlights a broader trend of increased state paternalism observed across Europe.
The analysis of Romania’s performance in the 2023 Nanny State Index was recently featured in an article by ‘Adevarul’. The article discusses the reasons behind Romania’s underwhelming performance in the latest edition of the index. Additionally, it highlights the overall trend of increased state paternalism across Europe. For the full article in Romanian, you can access it here.
The Romanian news outlet ‘News’ published an article discussing the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index concerning Romania and Europe as a whole. The article explores how Romania’s scores align with the broader trend observed across Europe, which indicates an increase in state paternalism in the lifestyle sector. For the full article in Romanian, please access it here.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Economica’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, noting Germany and Turkey’s position as the most and least liberal countries on the list. The article includes Christopher Snowden’s predictions regarding Romania’s position in the following year’s index.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Antena3 Online’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Romania’s rank as one of ‘the least free’ countries in tobacco consumption in Europe. Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Evenimentul Zilei’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023. Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power.
The Romanian news outlet ‘’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023. Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power. It also zooms into the relative position of other countries on the list, such as Turkey and Germany, the most and least restrictive countries.
An article in Universul used the 2023 Nanny State Index to analyse how Romania’s taxes for tobacco production, the highest in Europe when adjusted for income and purchasing power, have contributed to a thriving illicit market as some consumers seek cheaper alternatives.
The analysis of Romania’s performance in the 2023 Nanny State Index was recently featured in an article by ‘Newsweek’. The article discusses the reasons behind Romania’s underwhelming performance in the latest edition of the index. Additionally, it highlights the overall trend of increased state paternalism across Europe.
The Romanian news outlet ‘ PSnews’ published an article discussing the findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index concerning Romania and Europe as a whole. The article explores how Romania’s scores align with the broader trend observed across Europe, which indicates an increase in state paternalism in the lifestyle sector.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Economica’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023 on smoking. The article includes Christopher Snowden’s predictions regarding Romania’s position in the following year’s index. Romania has strict regulations regarding tobacco and alcohol consumption. There are also concerns that e-cigarettes will be included in the smoking ban in the near future.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Astazi’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Romania’s rank as one of ‘the least free’ countries in tobacco consumption in Europe. Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power.
The popular Romanian news outlet ‘Digi24’ published another article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Romania’s rank as one of ‘the least free’ countries in tobacco consumption in Europe. Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power.
An article in Media Fax used the 2023 Nanny State Index to analyse how Romania’s taxes for tobacco production, the highest in Europe when adjusted for income and purchasing power, have contributed to a thriving illicit market as some consumers seek cheaper alternatives.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Cronica Romana’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023. Because Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power, it has suffered from a rampant black market in recent years.
The popular Romanian news outlet ‘Romania TV’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Romania’s rank as one of ‘the least free’ countries in tobacco consumption in Europe. Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power and now one of the largest illicit markets for tobacco.
An article in Financial Intelligence used the 2023 Nanny State Index to analyse how Romania’s taxes for tobacco production, the highest in Europe when adjusted for income and purchasing power, have contributed to a thriving illicit market as some consumers seek cheaper alternatives.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Ziarul Bursa’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023. Because Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power, it has suffered from a rampant black market in recent years.
The popular Romanian news outlet ‘DCBusiness’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Romania’s rank as one of ‘the least free’ countries in tobacco consumption in Europe. Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power and now one of the largest illicit markets for tobacco.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Hot News’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023. Because Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power, it has suffered from a rampant black market in recent years.
An article in The Romania Journal used the 2023 Nanny State Index to analyse how Romania’s taxes for tobacco production, the highest in Europe when adjusted for income and purchasing power, have contributed to a thriving illicit market as some consumers seek cheaper alternatives.
The popular Romanian news outlet ‘Economica’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Romania’s rank as one of ‘the least free’ countries in tobacco consumption in Europe. Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power and now one of the largest illicit markets for tobacco.
An article in Business Review Romania used the 2023 Nanny State Index to analyse how Romania’s taxes for tobacco production, the highest in Europe when adjusted for income and purchasing power, have contributed to a thriving illicit market as some consumers seek cheaper alternatives.
An article in Business Review Romania used the 2023 Nanny State Index to analyse how Romania’s taxes for tobacco production, the highest in Europe when adjusted for income and purchasing power, have contributed to a thriving illicit market as some consumers seek cheaper alternatives.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Jurnalul’ recently published an article on Romania’s failing paternalistic strategy to combat smoking, as evidenced by the fact that the number of smokers has risen since its enactment. In it, the author references the 2023 Nanny State Index as a source of information showcasing why such paternalistic measures consistently fail to achieve the desired results.
The Romanian news outlet ‘Daily Business’ published an article summarising the findings of the Nanny State Index 2023, focusing on Romania’s rank as one of ‘the least free’ countries in tobacco consumption in Europe. Romania has the highest tax for tobacco production when adjusted for income and purchasing power and now one of the largest illicit markets for tobacco.
The Slovakian Press Agency presented Slovakia’s results from the 2023 Nanny State Index in their article, ‘Slovakia has improved somewhat in the Nanny State Index”. In the article, the authors explored how paternalistic regulations in the lifestyle sector remain, however the extent to which they curb Slovak’s liberties is lesser than elsewhere in Europe.
The Spanish newspaper Libre Mercado published an article discussing EPICENTER’s Nanny State Index. The article emphasizes the Spanish government’s notably low level of interventionism in alcohol, smoking, and vaping regulations, securing the fourth position as one of the least interventionist governments among the 30 countries studied.
Juan Ramón Rallo, a Spanish YouTuber with over 500,000 subscribers, presented findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index in a video on his channel entitled: “Which are the most paternalistic European states?”. In the video, Juan discussed how the Spanish government, and others across Europe, have expanded the breadth and depth of paternalistic interventions in the lifestyle sector.
Recently, on Spain’s popular ‘Radio Intereconomía’, Juan Pina from EPICENTER partner think tank Fundalib discussed findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index. In his interview, Juan unpacked the main findings about Spain and Europe to showcase how increasing paternalism in the lifestyle sector affect Spanish and European citizens.
In ‘La Region’, a popular Spanish newspaper, an article presented various findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index. In the article, La Region explored how Spain’s relatively low level of interventionism in alcohol, smoking, and vaping, stood as an outlier among the 30 countries studied. Additionally, the article discussed the main paternalist trends found around Europe.
‘La Gaceta’, a liberal daily, published an article discussing the consequences of Spain’s burgeoning nanny state on economic growth, consumer prices, and individual liberty. The article utilised findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index to showcase how increased paternalism in the lifestyle sector does not produce greater health outcomes or life expectancy.
Turkey
This article by ‘Gerçekler sadece gerçekler’ highlights Turkey’s performance in the Nanny State Index. Turkey secured the top position among 30 countries, not only in the overall index but also in three out of the four main categories. With a score of 54.2 out of 100, Turkey surpassed its closest competitor Norway, which was the previous year’s winner, with a score of 43.3. Turkey achieved the first rank in terms of alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, and fast-food/beverage regulations, while ranking third in terms of tobacco policies.
The article by ‘Asayiş’ provides an analysis of the potential consequences of Turkey’s Nanny State Index (NSI) score. It predicts that companies in the fast-food and beverage sector may face a decline in competitiveness due to high tax rates imposed on the industry. The article also acknowledges that the stringent regulations highlighted in the report can be viewed as significant steps towards improving public health.
This article from LineHaber provides an in-depth analysis of Turkey’s results in the 2023 Nanny State Index. It highlights Turkey’s remarkable performance, as it secured the top position among 30 countries, not only in the overall index but also in three out of the four main categories. The article emphasizes how Turkey’s entry into the index has surpassed previous year’s results.
T4 Haber’s article provides a summary and interpretation of the 2023 Nanny State Index. It highlights Turkey’s ranking as the least free country in Europe when it comes to consumption, securing the first place not only in the overall index but also in three out of the four categories: alcohol, e-cigarettes, and food/soft drinks.
The article by Onedio utilizes the Turkish and pan-European findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index to illustrate the increasing trend of state paternalism throughout Europe. It highlights the steady rise of such policies and their impact on individual freedoms.
Bianet recently released the findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index. Their article specifically highlights how Turkey’s inclusion in the Index has significantly impacted the previously lower (less-free) section of the index. It explores the changes and implications of Turkey’s ranking.
The article by ‘Diken’ discusses Turkey’s score on the Nanny State Index, highlighting its position as the “least free” country for consumption compared to the other 29 countries on the list. It emphasizes that Turkey ranked first in terms of restrictions on alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, and fast-food/beverage ratios, while ranking third in terms of tobacco policies.
The article by ‘Gerçek Gündem’ provides a summary and analysis of the 2023 Nanny State Index. It highlights Turkey’s ranking as the least free country for consumption in Europe, securing the first place not only in the overall index but also in three out of the four categories: alcohol, e-cigarettes, and food/soft drinks.
The article by ‘Budun’ discusses Turkey’s score on the Nanny State Index, highlighting its position as the “least free” country for consumption compared to the other 29 countries on the list. It emphasizes that Turkey ranked first in terms of restrictions on alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, and fast-food/beverage ratios, while ranking third in terms of tobacco policies.
The article by ‘DS Haber’ discusses Turkey’s score on the Nanny State Index, highlighting its position as the “least free” country for consumption compared to the other 29 countries on the list. It provides an explanation on how to interpret the score. Turkey ranked first in terms of restrictions on alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, and fast-food/beverage ratios, and ranked third in terms of tobacco policies.
The host and guest in the video discuss each category of the index and explain how it is calculated. Turkey received the highest score for alcohol restrictions, scoring 27 out of 33. The guest, Israfil Ozkan, compares Turkey’s approach to that of Norway and Finland in encouraging reduced alcohol consumption. Norway and Finland invest in anti-alcohol propaganda as a deterrent before implementing taxes, while Turkey primarily relies on taxation as a method.
The article highlights how high tax burdens, reaching up to 300 percent, and excessive restrictions have contributed to Turkey being ranked as one of the least free countries in terms of consumption. It provides a breakdown of Turkey’s score in each category and compares the context of Turkey to other countries on the list. The article discusses the consequences of these constraints on consumption, noting that they do not effectively encourage a healthier lifestyle and instead give rise to a black market. Furthermore, it points out that such policies disproportionately affect the poorest segments of society.
The article by ‘Sozcu’ sheds light on Turkey’s underwhelming performance in the 2023 Nanny State Index, despite securing the top position among 30 countries in a comprehensive index. Turkey scored 54.2 out of 100, surpassing its closest rival Norway, the winner from the previous year, which scored 43.3.
In an article by Turkish news outlet ‘ElipsHaver’, Turkey’s performance in the 2023 Nanny State Index was highlighted. The article explains that Turkey achieved a score of 54.2 out of 100, surpassing its closest competitor Norway, which had held the top position in the previous year, with a score of 43.3. Turkey excelled in categories such as alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, and fast-food/beverage ratios, while securing the third rank in terms of tobacco policies.
The Turkish news outlet ‘LifeBursa’ featured the results of the 2023 Nanny State Index as well as Christopher Snowdon’s critique of ‘nanny state’ regulations. The article provides an overview of the index findings and discusses Snowdon’s criticisms regarding these regulatory measures.
NoktaHaberYorum recently highlighted Turkey’s score in the 2023 Nanny State Index, where it secured the top position among 30 countries in terms of alcohol, tobacco, and food restrictions. However, the article notes that the high tax imposed on alcohol has led to an increase in the consumption of illegal and counterfeit alcohol.
The article from ‘Gazedda’ discusses Turkey’s score on the Nanny State Index, highlighting its position as the “least free” country in terms of consumption compared to the other 29 countries on the list. Turkey secured the top spot for having restrictions on alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, and fast-food/beverage ratios, while ranking third in terms of tobacco policies.
In an article by Turkish news outlet ‘Kocaeli’, Turkey’s performance in the 2023 Nanny State Index was highlighted. The article explains that Turkey achieved a score of 54.2 out of 100, surpassing its closest competitor Norway, which had held the top position in the previous year, with a score of 43.3. Turkey excelled in categories such as alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, and fast-food/beverage ratios, while securing the third rank in terms of tobacco policies.
UK
The editor of the 2023 Nanny State Index, Christopher Snowdon, authored an article in The Spectator discussing the United Kingdom’s ranking in the Index. In addition to discussing Britain’s dispiriting performance, Chris elaborated on the anticipated increase in the number of paternalistic policies in the near future.
The British news outlet ‘KNews Media’ featured the results from the Nanny State Index and provided an overview of Britain’s performance in comparison to other European countries. The article highlighted that the UK has the most stringent regulations on tobacco and ranks second in terms of the strictness of its food and drink controls among European nations.
The main conclusions of the 2023 Nanny State Index were highlighted in an article titled “Britain’s Nanny State meddles more as both parties plot further nannying” on the British political news outlet Guido Fawkes. The article utilises the Nanny State Index to demonstrate how there seems to be a cross-party consensus in favour of expanding paternalistic measures in the lifestyle sector.
The main conclusions of the 2023 Nanny State Index were highlighted in an article titled “Britain’s Nanny State meddles more as both parties plot further nannying” on the British political news outlet Guido Fawkes. The article utilises the Nanny State Index to demonstrate how there seems to be a cross-party consensus in favour of expanding paternalistic measures in the lifestyle sector.
The Daily Telegraph featured the main findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index and provided a comprehensive breakdown of Britain’s extensive range of paternalistic measures. The article compared Britain’s regulations in lifestyle matters to those of other European countries. It also highlighted EPICENTER’s findings, which suggest that such measures do not contribute to healthier and longer-living societies.
In the Daily Mail’s article titled “We have some of the strictest nanny state rules in Europe,” data from the Nanny State Index was used to explain why the UK received disappointing results in the latest edition of the index. The article included quotes from Christopher Snowdon, the Head of Lifestyle Economics at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), who predicted that state paternalism is likely to expand even more in the years to come.
In the Scottish Daily Mail, data from the Nanny State Index was utilised to demonstrate how the Scottish National Party’s implementation of various paternalistic measures has negatively impacted Britain’s performance in the latest index. The article delves into the specific measures introduced by the party and their implications.
Luxurious Magazine featured data from the 2023 Nanny State Index, highlighting the expansion of Britain’s paternalistic state in recent years. The article focused specifically on the country’s alcohol and tobacco regulations, which were noted as some of the strictest in Europe. Excerpts from the Nanny State Index were included to illustrate the growing trend of nanny statism in the UK.
In Knowledia’s article titled “And you thought Britain was a nanny state: UK ranks 11th in Europe” data from the Nanny State Index was used to explain why the UK received disappointing results in the latest edition of the index. The article includes quotes from Christopher Snowdon, the Head of Lifestyle Economics at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), who predicts that state paternalism is likely to expand even further in the coming years.
The Mail Online provided an overview of the main findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index, highlighting Britain’s extensive range of paternalistic measures. The article compared Britain’s regulations in lifestyle matters to those of other countries in Europe. Furthermore, it presented EPICENTER’s findings that such measures do not contribute to healthier and longer-living societies.
In the Scottish Daily Express, findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index were presented as part of an article criticising the Scottish National Party’s recent paternalistic interventions in the lifestyle sector. The piece outlined how Britain’s score in the 2023 Index was worsened as a direct result of Scotland’s minimum pricing rules for alcoholic drinks.
Recently, the 2023 Nanny State Index was showcased in the Daily Telegraph. In the article, the main findings of the index regarding Britain were outlined, illustrating how recent state paternalist interventions in the lifestyle sector have stifled freedoms.
In the Times, analysis from the 2023 Nanny State Index featured as part of a review of Britain’s increasingly strict e-cigarette rules and legislations. The article illustrated how nanny statist policymaking efforts, designed to disincentivise individuals from using e-cigarettes, have made reduced harm alternatives to cigarettes less attractive to smokers.
Yahoo! News recently published an article highlighting the key findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The piece focused on Britain’s persistently disappointing performance in previous editions, which carried over to the 2023 edition. Furthermore, the article provided an overview of the main pan-European trends in state paternalism as identified in the Index.
On TalkTV, Christopher Snowdon from the IEA made a guest appearance to discuss the findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index. In the segment, Chris highlighted the ongoing increase in state paternalistic policymaking across Europe.
On the GBNews show “Farage,” Nigel Farage discussed Britain’s results from the 2023 Nanny State Index. During the segment, Farage emphasized how state paternalistic policies hinder individual liberties and fail to achieve the public health targets they purport to serve.
WiredGov recently released an article summarising the main conclusions of the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article underscores the ongoing trend of paternalistic policymaking, which has enabled the steady progress of nanny statism.
The Asian Trader recently published an article that provides an in-depth analysis of the key findings regarding Britain in the 2023 Nanny State Index. The piece highlights how stringent regulations and increased taxes in the lifestyle sector have reinforced Britain’s reputation as one of the strictest nanny states in Europe.
Online news outlet ‘NewsGroove’ published an article emphasising the increasing restrictions on tobacco, alcohol and junk food in the UK, which has upped its ranking since 2021. The UK ranked 13th overall, it has the most restrictive tobacco regulations in Europe but has the most liberal policies on e-cigarettes. Studies show that there is no correlation between stricter regulations and higher life expectancy.
Online blog ‘Head Rambles’ published the findings of the 2023 Nanny State Index. It focuses on the rank of the UK and Ireland. There is no evidence to suggest that the policies are helping to create a healthier and happier population.
‘MSN UK’ published an article reporting the position of the UK in the Nanny State Index 2023. The UK ranked 13th overall, it has the most restrictive tobacco regulations in Europe but has the most liberal policies on e-cigarettes. Studies show that there is no correlation between the Nanny State Index and higher life expectancy.
The Sun provided an overview of the key findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index and highlighted Britain’s underwhelming performance. The article discussed the different paternalistic policies implemented in the country that contribute to its lower score, such as minimum pricing for alcohol and plain packaging requirements for cigarettes.
The Scottish news outlet ‘The Scottish Sun’ featured the results from the Nanny State Index and provided an overview of Britain’s performance in comparison to other European countries. The article highlighted that the UK has the most stringent regulations on tobacco and ranks second in terms of the strictness of its food and drink controls among European nations.
During Reem’s appearance on GBNews ‘The Saturday Five’, she discussed the lacklustre performance of the UK in the latest edition of the Nanny State Index during a discussion about the rise in the scope and volume of restrictions place on individual freedoms.
During Chris’ appearance on The Taxpayers Alliance’s podcast ‘TPA Talks’, he summarised the main conclusions from the 2023 Nanny State Index. Chris discussed how state paternalist measures are becoming increasingly common throughout Europe. Additionally, he dissected common arguments presented by state paternalism’s advocates.
In the Times’ ‘Ask the experts’ column, an article titled “What you can and can’t do in Europe’s most (and least) nanny-state countries’ unpacked the main findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index. The article explored how paternalist measures have turned out in practice through a series of interviews with individuals across Europe.
In The Times’ article discussing recent polling which indicates that one in three British voters would support a ban on gambling, findings from the 2023 Nanny State Index were featured. The article outlined how the British public were generally in favour of stricter controls and regulations to tackle gambling, obesity, alcohol intake, diet, and exercise.
In a Telegraph article delving into popular narratives surrounding ‘greedflation’, the 2023 Nanny State Index was referenced to dispel the belief that top-down, state-intervention measures in product markets provides the best remedy for high consumer prices.
Appearing on the ‘The Brussels Report Podcast’, IEA Head of Lifestyle Economics, Christopher Snowdon, discussed the main conclusions from the 2023 Nanny State Index. In the episode, Chris provided an overview of the Nanny State Index and delved into the general paternalistic trends in the lifestyle sector across Europe.
The Florida Star featured results from the Nanny State Index and provided an overview of the pan-European trend toward increasing paternalism in the lifestyle sector. The article highlighted that stringent regulations on tobacco, e-cigarettes, alcohol, and food and soft drinks are steadily increasing in scope and volume across the continent despite their lack of efficacy in achieving public heath targets.