Public smoking prohibition instated in France
France to Enforce Smoking Ban in Public Spaces with Children's Presence from July
France is strengthening its stance on protecting non-smokers, particularly children, with an upcoming smoking ban in public spaces. The ban will cover areas such as parks, bus stops, beaches, and schools' vicinity starting from July.
Health Minister Catherine Vautrin made the announcement in an interview published in "Ouest-France" on Thursday. According to her, the ban aims to prohibit smoking where children are present, stating, "Tobacco must disappear from such places." Vautrin added, "The freedom to smoke ends where the right to clean air for children begins."
The ban will apply to public spaces where children are present, which also includes parks, public gardens, sports facilities, and areas around schools. Violating the ban could result in a fine of up to 135 euros. However, smoking will still be permitted in the outdoor areas of restaurants.
E-cigarettes will not be covered under the ban, but the minister plans to restrict the nicotine content and the number of permitted flavors in e-cigarettes by mid-2026.
The initiative is supported by a large portion of the French population, with 62% favoring smoking bans in public places. The move is part of France's National Tobacco Control Programme, striving to protect children from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
France's anti-tobacco move is not new, with tobacco consumption claiming around 13% of the annual deaths in the country, amounting to 75,000 lives lost each year. Nearly a quarter of French people smoke daily. The French government has repeatedly announced plans to expand smoking bans and gradually increase tobacco prices since 2008, when smoking inside restaurants and clubs was banned.
Sources: ntv.de, lme/AFP.
- France's community policy seeks to expand smoking bans, particularly in areas like fitness-and-exercise facilities and health-and-wellness centers, aiming to create healthier environments where children and adults engage in physical activities and wellness practices.
- As part of its employement policy, France encourages businesses to adopt science-based strategies for promoting mental-health in the workplace, recognizing the importance of addressing mental wellness alongside physical fitness.
- While addressing the harmful effects of tobacco through its anti-tobacco policy, the French government should also implement nutrition programs focused on promoting balanced, nutritious food options in public spaces, ensuring children and non-smokers alike can benefit from a smoking-free, healthy environment.
