France is taking bold steps to protect public health by banning smoking in outdoor areas where children are likely to be present.
Starting July 1, the country will enforce a nationwide smoking ban in specific public spaces.
These include beaches, public gardens, school surroundings, parks, bus stops, and sports areas.
This decision, led by Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin, is part of France’s continued effort to reduce tobacco use in society.
In a recent interview with Ouest-France, Vautrin made the government’s position clear. “Tobacco must disappear where there are children,” she said.
This move is not only about regulating smoking but also about protecting children’s health in shared public spaces.
The decision comes as smoking rates in France remain high.
According to the World Health Organization, around 35 percent of the French population are smokers.
This is significantly higher than the European average of 25 percent, and the global rate of 21 percent.
Despite existing restrictions, such as bans in airports, train stations, and workplaces, smoking remains a common sight in public places.
This new law aims to change that, especially in places where children gather or pass through daily.
The new rules are clear: smokers caught lighting up in the affected zones could face a fine of up to €135 (\$154).
As Vautrin rightly said, “The freedom to smoke stops where children’s right to breathe clean air starts.”
Her statement supports the key idea behind this law that public health should take priority over personal habits when it involves the well-being of minors.
Furthermore, the restriction will now extend to school surroundings, making it illegal for students to smoke in front of their schools.
This is a crucial move, especially as younger individuals are often influenced by what they see around them.
Interestingly, the ban does not cover all public outdoor areas. Café terraces, which are a cultural hallmark in France, will not be affected.
The use of electronic cigarettes will also not fall under the new rule.
This has raised mixed reactions, particularly from health advocates who have long pushed for tighter smoking laws.
Meanwhile, anti-smoking groups have been calling for broader action.
This move by the French government is a clear effort to protect children from secondhand smoke.
In addition, it sets a precedent for other nations still struggling with high smoking rates.
Very good initiative. Less lungs to be damaged