WHO Begins Negotiations on Tobacco-Control Treaty May 2, 2001
News Summary
The United Nations have begun negotiations to develop a first-of-its-kind international treaty to reduce smoking, Reuters reported April 30.The World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nation's health organization, began talks last October in an effort to develop a Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) for this week's five-day meeting in Geneva, Switzerland.
"The ultimate objective is to protect present and future generations from the devastating health, social, environmental and economic consequences of tobacco consumption and exposure to tobacco smoke," stated a draft to be debated at the meeting.
The current draft of the treaty would place tougher restrictions on tobacco advertising and gradually eliminate sponsorship of sporting events by cigarette companies. In addition, governments would commit to using price as a means of discouraging smoking.
The proposed treaty is strongly opposed by tobacco companies. British American Tobacco (BAT) said such an agreement undermines the decision-making authority of national governments.
WHO wants a treaty ratified and in place by 2003.
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