Laws related to alcohol consumption vary widely by country. AFS Participants are expected to follow the laws of their host country. In many countries, wine or beer is regularly served with meals, and young people may be included in this tradition. As such, you may have legal opportunities to drink alcohol in your host country. Despite host country laws, you are expected to abide by your host family rules and the AFS host country policy. A pattern of alcohol use or any incident of alcohol abuse on the part of an AFS participant can result in program termination. If you are extended a legal opportunity to drink alcohol, moderation is expected. Excessive drinking or drunkenness is considered highly inappropriate and will not be tolerated by your hosts or by AFS.
In some countries, alcohol consumption is considered inappropriate because of religious practice. Be sensitive to the attitude toward alcohol in your host family and community in addition to the laws of your host country.