EU citizens urged: Speak up to protect Europe’s smoke-free future

Citizens, health professionals, scientists and consumers across Europe have a rare chance to make their voices heard in a crucial European Commission consultation that could shape the future of smoking reduction across the continent.

The Commission has launched a public call for evidence as part of its revision of EU tobacco and nicotine laws. These reforms threaten to severely restrict access to safer nicotine alternatives such as nicotine pouches, vapes and heated tobacco products. 

Dr Delon Human, leader of Smoke Free Sweden, warned: “Europe risks undermining progress against smoking if policymakers ignore real-world evidence from countries that have successfully reduced cigarette use.

“Sweden is already on the brink of becoming the world’s first officially smoke-free country, with smoking rates falling below the 5% threshold through a pragmatic approach that made safer nicotine alternatives accessible, acceptable and affordable.

“The decisions taken in Brussels over the next year could either accelerate the decline of smoking throughout Europe or make it harder for millions of smokers to switch to less harmful alternatives.

“Too often, people most affected by policy – consumers and former smokers – are excluded from the conversation. This consultation is a rare opportunity for citizens to speak directly to decision-makers.”

Dr Human, a former secretary-general of the World Medical Association, urged Europeans to share evidence, personal experiences and scientific perspectives with the Commission before the deadline of 15 June.

“Sweden has shown that when safer alternatives are available and affordable, smoking falls faster and lives are saved,” he said. “Europe should learn from success, not restrict it.”

Members of the public can submit their views here:
European Commission consultation on EU tobacco and nicotine rules