Caretaker Health Minister Michail Okoliyski advocated for a comprehensive smoking ban and restricted involvement from the tobacco industry during a roundtable discussion on improving tobacco control in Bulgaria. The event, hosted by the WHO office in Bulgaria and initiated by the minister, focused on implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and relevant national legislation. Due to the current lack of a functioning parliament, which limits legislative action, Okoliyski stated that a letter has been submitted to the President, ministries, and other institutions.
This communication calls for two key actions: first, establishing genuinely enforceable orders to ban smoking, given that such a ban is already legally mandated; and second, addressing the influence of the tobacco industry. The minister emphasized that industry interference, which can be subtle, requires recognizing that tobacco companies should not serve as partners to the Ministry of Health. Okoliyski highlighted a concerning trend, noting that while tobacco use and heated product use are declining across EU nations, they are increasing in Bulgaria, where approximately 40% of the population smokes.
He expressed particular concern over high rates of smoking among young people and the prevalence of smoking among girls. He attributed the persistence of these issues to strong industry interests, which continue to influence media coverage with scientifically questionable claims about reduced harm. Other participants reinforced the need for stronger measures.
Experts pointed to legal gaps concerning heated tobacco products and insufficient prevention funding, while advertising and industry sponsorship remain significant influences. The WHO Framework Convention mandates that states protect public health policies from commercial interests, a principle stressed by attendees in attendance.
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A comprehensive smoking ban appears to be a vital step for improving public health outcomes.