FCTC stands for the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which is a global treaty adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2003. This treaty was developed with the objective of reducing tobacco consumption and its negative health effects worldwide. The FCTC provides a comprehensive framework for international cooperation and actions against the tobacco epidemic.
The FCTC aims to promote effective tobacco control policies by implementing various provisions. It emphasizes on measures such as raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco, preventing tobacco sales to minors, implementing restrictions on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship, enforcing smoke-free environments, increasing taxes on tobacco products, providing access to tobacco cessation services, regulating tobacco product packaging and labeling, and combating illicit trade of tobacco products.
Through the FCTC, countries are encouraged to implement evidence-based policies and practices to reduce the demand and supply of tobacco. It fosters international cooperation, technical assistance, and financial resources to support implementation efforts, especially for low- and middle-income countries.
The FCTC obligates its signatory countries to develop and implement comprehensive national tobacco control programs. It also establishes a Conference of the Parties, which is the main decision-making body responsible for reviewing the treaty's implementation, promoting cooperation among countries, establishing guidelines, and facilitating the exchange of information and best practices.
In summary, the FCTC is an international treaty that sets out guidelines and measures to combat the global tobacco epidemic, promoting public health and reducing both the demand for and supply of tobacco products.
