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Policy leadership at many levels

WHO/Europe, through its tobacco-free initiative, supports countries in implementing tobacco control measures at all levels of government. It develops tools and evidence-based guidance to support and monitor implementation, offers advice and training and promotes exchange and learning across the Region.

Tough legislation outweighs perceived political costs

Governments have recognized the importance of tobacco control and many are now seriously addressing it through taxation, pricing, advertising, packaging, warnings, smoking in public places and supporting people who want to kick the habit.

These initiatives are strongly supported by the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which 45 countries in the European Region have ratified so far. Governments are finding that the health gains hugely outweigh the perceived political costs of taking action, and one country after another is introducing tough legislation to combat smoking.

Background

Tobacco is the leading risk factor for premature mortality in the European Region, causing about 1.6 million deaths a year. WHO is committed to reducing the global burden of disease and death caused by tobacco, protecting present and future generations from the devastating health, social, environmental and economic consequences of tobacco consumption and exposure to tobacco smoke.