Countries Globally Join Forces to Combat Tobacco Use and Promote Smoke-Free Generations
Countries from around the world are stepping up their efforts to combat tobacco use, implementing smoking bans and restrictions on tobacco and vaping sales. This global initiative aligns with the World Economic Forum’s Global Health and Healthcare Strategic Outlook 2023 to promote better healthcare by 2035.
The World Economic Forum highlights that since Ireland’s groundbreaking move in 2004 to ban indoor smoking in workplaces, including restaurants and entertainment venues, a wave of similar policies has emerged worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies tobacco use as a significant public health threat, resulting in over 8 million deaths annually, with 1.2 million attributed to second-hand smoke exposure. In response, countries are strengthening their legislation on tobacco use, expanding bans to outdoor public spaces.
Portugal, for instance, has set its sights on achieving a smoke-free generation by 2040. In May, draft legislation was proposed to restrict tobacco sales and outdoor smoking in public areas, starting from autumn 2023. The law would prohibit smoking outside bars, restaurants, and public facilities. By 2025, tobacco sales would be limited to licensed tobacconists and airport shops.
Canada is also working towards reducing tobacco use to less than 5% by 2035. Health Canada plans to print warning messages directly on cigarette filters, building upon the existing requirement for warning labels on cigarette packaging.
Australia’s focus lies in creating smoke-free public places, particularly in proximity to schools and children’s events. Additionally, the country is considering tighter regulations for e-cigarettes and vaping.
In pursuit of President Emmanuel Macron’s vision for a tobacco-free generation by 2030, France has announced plans to ban e-cigarettes. This includes raising cigarette prices and expanding smoke-free zones.
Mexico has recently enacted one of the world’s strictest anti-tobacco laws, extending the smoking ban to all public spaces and completely prohibiting tobacco promotion.
In the UK, new legislation is being planned to gradually increase the legal age for tobacco purchases each year. The ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals aged 14 or younger will never be legally able to buy cigarettes.
These initiatives mark a significant shift in global health policy as governments reconsider their healthcare systems in light of the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Economic Forum’s report emphasizes the need for health systems to adapt and improve for the future, with tobacco control playing a vital role in this transformation.
By intensifying their efforts to curb tobacco use and promote smoke-free generations, countries worldwide are making strides towards improving public health and reducing the staggering number of tobacco-related deaths. Through legislation, awareness campaigns, and innovative solutions, they are taking decisive action to protect their populations from the harmful effects of tobacco.
