Caretaker Health Minister Michail Okoliyski advocated for an effective smoking ban and stricter limitation of the tobacco industry’s influence during a roundtable discussion on tobacco control. The event, titled “For improved tobacco control and effective implementation of the WHO Framework Convention and Bulgarian legislation,” was hosted by Minister Okoliyski and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) office in Bulgaria. Minister Okoliyski stressed the necessity of implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and associated national legislation.
Given the current lack of a functioning parliament for legislative action, a formal letter has been submitted to the President, all ministries, and other institutions. This letter outlines two primary demands: establishing genuinely enforceable smoking bans to end perceived double standards, and addressing the interference from the tobacco industry. He emphasized that while such interference is often subtle, recognizing that tobacco companies should not partner with the Ministry of Health is a critical first step.
He highlighted a concerning trend, noting that while tobacco use and heated tobacco product use are declining across the EU, usage in Bulgaria is increasing, with approximately 40% of the population smoking. Minister Okoliyski expressed deep concern over the prevalence of smoking among young people, particularly the higher rates among girls. He attributed the sustained issues to historical neglect due to powerful tobacco industry interests, which continue through media purchases featuring unverified claims about heated products.
Other participants noted gaps in current legislation, such as loopholes concerning heated tobacco products. Experts discussed international models, including restrictions on sales for those born after a certain year, and stressed the need for increased prevention funding. The general consensus among attendees was the need for stronger governmental measures to shield public health policies from commercial influence, consistent with the WHO Framework Convention.
Topics: #minister #okoliyski #effective
