WHO Framework Convention on tobacco control

• The Union Cabinet has given approval to accede to the Protocol under World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on tobacco control to eliminate illicit trade in tobacco products.
• It will be applicable to both smoking and chewing or smokeless tobacco (SLT) forms as negotiated and adopted under Article 15 of the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC).

About WHO FCTC:

• The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) is the first international public health treaty negotiated under WHO auspices. The WHO FCTC, which was negotiated over four years and came into force on 27 February 2005, was developed in the recognition that a global strategy was needed to confront a global epidemic that countries cannot address through domestic legislation alone. The WHO FCTC contains guidelines and requirements for the implementation of the most cost-effective tobacco control measures available.

Key provisions:

• A comprehensive ban on tobacco advertising, sponsorship and promotion to be implemented within five years;
• Strong health warnings on tobacco packaging that cover at least 30% (and ideally 50%) of the principal display areas within three years;
• Protection from secondhand smoke in all indoor workplaces and public places and in public transportation; and
• Measures to reduce the smuggling of tobacco products.
• The treaty also addresses a number of other issues, including the disclosure and regulation of ingredients in tobacco products, sale of tobacco products by or to minors, treatment for tobacco addiction, research and exchange of information among countries and promoting public awareness.

Analysis:

• Elimination of illicit trade in tobacco products through strengthened regulation will help in strengthening comprehensive tobacco control, leading to reduction in tobacco use which in turn, will result in reduction in disease burden and mortality associated with tobacco use.
• Accession to such treaty will provide actionable alternatives against such prevailing practices that are affecting public health at large. India, being at the forefront of tobacco control, would be able to influence the international organizations including World Custom Organization in controlling such illicit trade.
• The protocol to eliminate illicit trade in tobacco products is a path breaking initiative in strengthening global action against tobacco and is also a new legal instrument in public health. It is a comprehensive tool to counter and eventually eliminate illicit trade in tobacco products and to strengthen legal dimensions for international health cooperation.

By: Vishal