Tobacco: Experts task media on global treaty implementation, health risks

Experts under the aegis of the Network for Accountability of Tobacco Transnational (NATT) have enjoined the media to be mindful of efforts by the tobacco industry to promote tobacco use and undermine the implementation of the global tobacco treaty.

They gave the advice during a virtual media briefing organised by the NATT ahead of the 10th Conference of the Parties (COP10) to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) and the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products (MOP3), slated for the end of November in Panama.

Legal Officer, WHO FCTC, Sabina Timco Lacazzi, says eight million lives are lost to tobacco use and exposure every year.

She said 183 parties representing more than 90% of the world’s population observe the treaty, which entered into force on 27 February 2005.

• NIGERIA DAILY: Step By Step Guide On How To Hold Politicians Accountable
• Devaluation pushes Nigeria’s debt to N89.2trn

She said the treaty was developed in response to the globalization of the tobacco epidemic and reaffirms the right of all people to the highest standard of health.

However, she added that the interference by tobacco groups and individuals has been reported by the parties as the single most important barrier in implementing the treaties.

Deputy Campaigns Director, Corporate Accountability, USA, Keltie Vance, said Article 19 of the treaty addresses liability and states that Parties provide one another with assistance in legal proceedings relating to civil and criminal liability against the tobacco industry.