Minister Okoliyski Calls for Effective Smoking Ban and Limiting Tobacco Industry Interference

Caretaker Health Minister Michail Okoliyski addressed the need for stronger tobacco control measures during a roundtable discussion titled “For improved tobacco control and effective implementation of the WHO Framework Convention and Bulgarian legislation.” The event, initiated by the minister and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) office in Bulgaria, focused on implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and related national laws. Given the current lack of a functioning parliament for legislative action, the minister issued a directive to the President, all ministries, and other institutions. This letter outlines two key steps: enforcing existing smoking bans to eliminate double standards and addressing the influence of the tobacco industry.

Okoliyski emphasized that the industry’s interference, though often subtle, requires acknowledgment, noting that the Ministry of Health should not partner with tobacco companies. He highlighted a concerning trend, stating that while tobacco and heated tobacco use is declining across EU nations, it is increasing in Bulgaria, where approximately 40% of the population smokes. The minister expressed concern over the high prevalence among youth and noted that girls smoke more than boys.

Okoliyski attributed these issues, in part, to persistent tobacco industry interests, including media purchases that promote unverified harm reduction claims. Participants stressed the need for robust enforcement, noting instances where smoking bans are disregarded within government buildings. Experts present, including representatives from various anti-smoking coalitions, pointed to legal gaps, particularly concerning heated tobacco products, and the insufficient funding for prevention efforts.

The discussions reinforced the WHO Framework Convention’s mandate to shield public health policies from commercial influence, underscoring the need for an effective approach championed by the minister.

Topics: #minister #okoliyski #effective