WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC)

News: The World Health Organization (WHO) is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the entry into force of its Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) this week.

About WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC)

• The WHO FCTC is the first global public health treaty negotiated under the World Health Organization.
• It is an evidence-based treaty that reaffirms the right of all people to attain the highest standard of health.
• The convention represents a paradigm shift by focusing on both demand reduction and supply control strategies to combat tobacco use.
• It was adopted by the World Health Assembly on May 21, 2003, and officially came into force on February 27, 2005.
• At present, the treaty has 181 Parties.
• Once ratified, the treaty becomes legally binding for each state, and any country that did not sign by 2004 can still become a party by accession.
• The primary objective is to protect present and future generations from the health, social, environmental, and economic consequences of tobacco consumption and exposure to tobacco smoke.
• It provides a framework for tobacco control measures at the national, regional, and international levels to reduce tobacco use.
• The Government of India ratified the WHO FCTC in 2004.