Caretaker Health Minister Michail Okoliyski advocated for an effective smoking ban and restricted involvement from the tobacco industry during a roundtable discussion on improving tobacco control. The event, held at BTA’s MaxiM Hall, was initiated by the minister and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) office in Bulgaria. Minister Okoliyski emphasized the necessity of implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and related national legislation.
Given the current lack of a functioning parliament, he reported submitting a letter to the President, all ministries, and other institutions detailing two key actions: enforcing comprehensive smoking bans and mitigating tobacco industry interference. He stated that while industry interference is often subtle, a critical step has been taken by recognizing that tobacco companies should not partner with the Ministry of Health. He highlighted a concerning trend, noting that while tobacco use is declining in other EU countries, it is increasing in Bulgaria, with approximately 40% of the population smoking.
Minister Okoliyski expressed particular concern over high rates of smoking among young people and the observation that girls smoke more than boys. He attributed these issues, in part, to the sustained influence of tobacco interests, including the purchase of media outlets that disseminate unverified claims about heated tobacco products. Other participants addressed implementation gaps.
A representative from the WHO noted that while the Framework Convention provides a guide, significant gaps remain in Bulgaria’s adherence to its provisions, particularly concerning heated tobacco products. Experts also discussed the need for increased prevention funding and stricter controls on industry sponsorships, reinforcing the need for an effective national strategy guided by the WHO standards.
Topics: #minister #okoliyski #effective
What specific measures does Minister Okoliyski propose to limit the tobacco industry’s influence?