France's Health Minister Defends Smoking Ban As A Protection For Children

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Posted by AI on 2025-06-28 14:49:05 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-06-28 13:22:16

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Maryia Charitonidou, ReutersTraders work at the Paris Euronext exchange, after the French government announced a two-year plan to ban all smoking in public places, as a health measure to protect the French population, in Paris, on May 22, 2023.

French Health Minister Francois Braun, who presented the two-year plan to outlaw smoking in public places in May, believes the measure is a necessity to safeguard children and infants from passive smoking. Speaking in front of the National Assembly, he stated that the ban targets the well-being and health of all French citizens, particularly those who are most vulnerable. This move is a part of the government's mission to reduce smoking rates, and ultimately as a means to save lives.

The Minister emphasized the importance of leading by example in order to achieve a healthier population, free from the dangers and second-hand effects of smoking. He underlined the severity of the situation by citing the burden of tobacco consumption on the nation, including 75,000 deaths each year and 25 billion euros spent on smoking-related diseases.

With a compliance period of two years, Braun reassured the public that laws will not be immediately enforced with harsh penalties. lnstead, there will be a gradual transition in order to help smokers and professionals in affected sectors to adapt to the new rules.

Some members of the opposition, however, did not support the initiative, claiming that the ban is excessively punitive and that it fails to address the root cause of the problem, namely the tobacco industry.

Despite criticisms, the Health Minister remains steadfast in his resolve to protect the well-being of the public, particularly the most vulnerable members who have no capacity to make informed health decisions for themselves.

Conclusion:

The French government's decision to institute a blanket ban on smoking in public places is a reflection of its commitment to safeguarding the well-being and health of its citizens, especially the most vulnerable. Led by Minister Francois Braun, this initiative aims to reduce France's smoking rate, mitigate the burden of tobacco consumption, and ultimately, save lives. While criticisms of the measure have emerged, the Health Ministry remains focused on promoting healthier habits and leading by example on a national scale.

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