The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) Secretariat has called on countries in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to fully implement tobacco control measures to protect children and young people from nicotine addiction.

Speaking at the sixth meeting of the High-level Ministerial Group on the Control of Tobacco and Emerging Tobacco and Nicotine Products on 14 July, Acting Head of the WHO FCTC Secretariat Andrew Black warned that novel tobacco and nicotine products, including e-cigarettes, are increasingly attracting young users through appealing designs, flavours and digital marketing.

Black urged governments to fully enforce the WHO FCTC, including comprehensive bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship, protection of public health policies from tobacco industry interference, restrictions on sales to minors, and higher tobacco taxes. He also highlighted new 2024 guidelines on cross-border and digital tobacco advertising, covering social media, influencers, gaming and streaming platforms.

The WHO FCTC Secretariat also encouraged countries to join and implement the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products, emphasizing that stronger tobacco control is essential to protecting youth, reducing noncommunicable diseases and advancing sustainable development.