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

Caretaker Health Minister Michail Okoliyski advocated for an effective smoking ban and restricted influence from the tobacco industry during a roundtable discussion on improving tobacco control in Bulgaria. The event, held at BTA’s MaxiM Hall and initiated by Minister Okoliyski with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) office, focused on implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and relevant national legislation. Given the current lack of a functioning parliament, Minister Okoliyski distributed a letter to the President, ministries, and other institutions detailing two necessary actions.

First, he urged the enforcement of existing smoking bans to eliminate double standards. Second, he called for addressing tobacco industry interference. He emphasized that this interference is often subtle and noted that the Ministry of Health should not partner with tobacco companies.

Minister Okoliyski highlighted a concerning trend, noting that tobacco use is rising in Bulgaria, with approximately 40% of the population smoking, contrasting with declining rates in other EU nations. He expressed particular concern over high rates of smoking among young people and the prevalence of smoking among girls. He attributed these issues partly to persistent tobacco industry interests, including media purchases that promote unverified claims about heated tobacco products.

Participants at the discussion raised several concerns. A representative from the WHO noted implementation gaps in Bulgaria, particularly regarding legal loopholes for heated tobacco products. Another expert pointed out that some countries are implementing measures restricting sales to those born after a certain date.

Furthermore, concerns were raised regarding insufficient prevention funding and the continued influence of tobacco industry sponsorships, despite the WHO Framework Convention’s mandate to shield public health policies from commercial interests.

Topics: #minister #okoliyski #effective