Germany’s Youth Tackle Binge Drinking Through Art and Social Media
A new round of the Colorful Instead of Blue campaign is underway, encouraging young people to create posters warning against binge drinking. The competition, now in its 17th year, offers cash prizes totalling €12,000 for the best designs. Students aged 12 to 17 across Germany are invited to take part before the March 31, 2026 deadline.
The campaign was first launched in 2010 after alarming figures showed over 25,000 minors hospitalised for alcohol poisoning. Since then, participation has been strong, with around 143,000 young people joining the initiative. Organisers include Germany’s Federal Drug Commissioner, Prof. Dr. Hendrik Streeck, and health insurer DAK-Gesundheit.
Recent data reveals progress: in 2024, hospital treatments for alcohol poisoning among minors dropped to 8,781 cases—the lowest in 25 years. This marks a 5.3% decrease from 2023. The sharpest decline was among boys aged 10 to 15, with an 8% reduction, while girls in the same age group saw a 4% fall. Entries will be judged first at the state level, with one winner selected from each of Germany’s 16 federal states. A national jury, known as the Bundesjury, will then pick the overall winners. Alongside traditional posters, a Social Media Award will recognise the best online content shared under #bsb2026 on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.
The competition aims to raise awareness of alcohol risks and support informed decisions among young people. With cash prizes and a focus on creative expression, organisers hope to build on the campaign’s success in reducing binge-drinking incidents. Submissions close on March 31, 2026, with winners announced later in the year.
