Read articles from Europe

May 12, 2026 by clivebates.com

England’s proposed anti-vaping measures are raising concerns about whether increasingly restrictive policies could undermine harm reduction efforts. Critics argue that broad limitations on flavours, marketing and product access risk making vaping less effective as an alternative for adult smokers. The proposals come at a time when smoking rates continue to decline, with vaping widely recognised as one factor contributing to that trend. Some experts warn that treating vaping too similarly to smoking could discourage switching and unintentionally protect cigarette sales. The debate reflects wider tensions between youth protection objectives and maintaining access to lower-risk nicotine alternatives for adults.

May 12, 2026 by consideratepouchers.org

Portugal is preparing to introduce stricter regulations on nicotine pouches, adding to the growing wave of tighter nicotine controls across Europe. Proposed measures would include new restrictions on packaging, sales and product standards, with supporters arguing they are necessary to protect young people and strengthen oversight. Critics, however, warn that excessive regulation could make smoke-free alternatives less accessible to adult smokers seeking lower-risk options. The debate also reflects wider concerns about regulatory fragmentation within the EU, where countries continue to adopt very different approaches to nicotine products. At the centre of the discussion is whether increasingly restrictive policies support public health goals or risk undermining harm reduction efforts.

May 12, 2026 by worldvapersalliance.com

The EU Council's draft compromise on the Tobacco Excise Directive lacks scientific basis, with tax rates on nicotine products adjusted to please all member states rather than prioritize public health. Changes made without technical justification include lowering rates for some products and raising them for e-liquids. World Vapers' Alliance criticizes the political deal-making approach, urging member states to reject compromises that prioritize tax revenue over health. Transparency and evidence-based decisions are emphasized for a fair taxation framework.

May 12, 2026 by worldvapersalliance.com

The EU Council's draft compromise on the Tobacco Excise Directive lacks scientific basis, with tax rates on nicotine products adjusted to please all member states rather than prioritize public health. Changes made without technical justification include lowering rates for some products and raising them for e-liquids. World Vapers' Alliance criticizes the political deal-making approach, urging member states to reject compromises that prioritize tax revenue over health. Transparency and evidence-based decisions are emphasized for a fair taxation framework.

May 11, 2026 by eunews.it

European Commissioner for Health Olivér Várhelyi faced scepticism in a dialogue with MEPs, particularly concerning the EU budget allocation for health and tobacco product regulations. Despite defending the proposed budget and his stance on taxation of tobacco alternatives, Várhelyi's performance is under scrutiny, compounded by Hungary's political shifts. The debate on healthcare funding revealed concerns about the budget's adequacy, with differing opinions on tobacco regulation's impact. Várhelyi's position is further challenged by industry experts' conflicting views on the harm levels of alternative nicotine products. The political landscape, including Péter Magyar's election win in Hungary, raises uncertainties about Várhelyi's future as a European Commissioner.

May 11, 2026 by smokefreesweden.org

Europe's Health Commissioner Várhelyi faces criticism for misinformation on smoke-free nicotine products, despite evidence supporting their lower health risks. Leading scientists rebuke his claims equating these products with cigarettes. Sweden's success in reducing smoking with safer alternatives like snus is highlighted. A group of 23 European scientists, including renowned experts, warns the European Commission about the misleading statements. Delon Human emphasizes the importance of policies based on evidence to help smokers switch to safer options and save lives.

May 11, 2026 by substack.com

I responded to the Department of Health and Social Care consultation on Smoke-free, heated tobacco-free and vape-free places in England (closed 8 May 2026).

The short version is that the Department has failed to make a credible case for central government intervention through legislation. The government ignored the superior alternative option of letting the owners and managers of properties, including local authorities, and education and healthcare providers, decide policy based on their specific and evolving circumstances. The key policy question is not what the policy should be in any particular place, but who should decide.

May 11, 2026 by vapebusiness.biz

Belgium has approved banning flavored vaping products, except tobacco and unflavored, by September 2028 to combat youth vaping. Minister Vandenbroucke criticized the industry for targeting young people. The move aligns with Dutch regulations, aiming to reduce vaping rates. Critics fear the ban may push adult vapers to smoking or the black market. Research suggests flavored e-cigarettes help smokers quit. Similar debates are ongoing in the UK and the US, where flavor restrictions may lead to increased cigarette sales, offsetting vaping reductions. Critics argue for a balanced approach to vaping regulations to preserve harm reduction benefits.

May 08, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu

Growing attention is being given to the possible connection between GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic and smoking cessation. Discussion among medical professionals suggests that appetite- and craving-reducing treatments could potentially support people trying to move away from cigarettes and other nicotine products. According to some clinicians, this overlap may open new opportunities for combining harm reduction strategies with broader metabolic and cardiovascular care. At the same time, reluctance within parts of the pharmaceutical and medical sectors continues to limit wider exploration of nicotine harm reduction. The debate reflects a broader shift in how addiction, nicotine use and long-term public health challenges are increasingly being understood.

May 08, 2026 by internationalcbc.com

Europe permits limited recreational cannabis commerce for research purposes through pilot trials, allowing local consumers, producers, and retailers to participate. Switzerland and the Netherlands have successful pilot projects, while Germany recently passed the CanG measure legalizing personal cannabis use and cultivation. Despite interest, Germany has not yet approved any pilot trial applications. Research aims to evaluate economic, health-related, and social impacts, potentially influencing broader legalization in Germany and the EU. Success in Switzerland and the Netherlands indicates Germany could also effectively implement pilot trials.