Governments, communities, organizations, schools, families, and individuals can all help current smokers stop their addictive and damaging habit. The Tobacco Free Initiative WHO's Tobacco Free Initiative wants people to quit smoking. But it recognises that smoking is an addiction, and that a smoker needs support from all sides in order to quit. But the role of governments is crucial. The Tobacco Free movement is gaining political momentum.
Several countries have rigorous anti-tobacco laws.
In the face of major obstacles, Thailand, for example, has recently enacted laws that are the keystones of a new comprehensive national tobacco control policy. Included in the tough measures are designated non-smoking areas, and a ban on tobacco advertising and promotion. Most recently, South Africa has stood up to the tobacco companies to pass its own strict anti-tobacco laws. These are making a difference. The spectacular rise and spread of tobacco consumption around the world is a challenge and an opportunity for the World Health Organization.