Read articles from Europe

March 25, 2026 by euperspectives.eu

Growing attention is being paid to how effectively smokers can be supported in quitting, particularly within the evolving landscape of EU health policy. Experts in addiction medicine emphasize that many patients struggle to quit using traditional methods alone, highlighting the need for more practical and accessible solutions. Increasingly, harm reduction approaches - such as the use of safer nicotine alternatives - are presented as a viable pathway away from combustible tobacco. Evidence suggests that these alternatives are significantly less harmful than smoking, which remains responsible for millions of deaths globally each year. The debate now centers on whether policymakers should actively support these tools as part of a broader strategy to reduce smoking-related disease across Europe.

March 25, 2026 by eureporter.co

Growing divisions within the European Parliament reveal conflicting visions for the future of EU health policy. Lawmakers remain split between advocating for stricter regulation of products affecting public health and emphasizing individual responsibility supported by scientific evidence. The debate is particularly visible in discussions around alcohol, tobacco, and nutrition policies, where differing approaches to regulation continue to emerge. Some policymakers warn against excessive intervention, stressing the importance of proportional and evidence-based measures. Others argue that stronger action is necessary to counter the influence of commercial factors on public health across the European Union.

March 23, 2026 by praguedaily.news

The Czech Trade Inspection Authority conducted over 7,000 inspections in alcohol and tobacco sales last year, revealing violations in almost 46% of cases. Of concern is the significant rise in alcohol sales to minors, with 686 cases recorded. The inspections, often in collaboration with other authorities, identified various shortcomings such as age limit violations and pricing errors. A total of 2,677 fines amounting to 44 million crowns were imposed. The results highlight the necessity for more rigorous enforcement, prompting the Authority to announce increased efforts, especially in preventing sales to minors.

March 23, 2026 by eureporter.co

Around 44.4% of cigarettes consumed in Belgium are not taxed domestically because they are imported or counterfeit. This leads to an estimated loss of more than 3.025 billion euros in excise duties and VAT revenues. The data comes from a recent study conducted for Cimabel, representing cigarette manufacturers in Belgium and Luxembourg. The figures cover the fourth quarter of 2025 and show a continuing rise in illegal tobacco consumption. This increase is significant compared to 34.9% recorded in the fourth quarter of 2024, indicating a rapidly growing problem.

March 23, 2026 by dailyrecord.co.uk

The Scottish Government has been criticized for being slow to implement a ban on vapes in schools. Despite new guidance, the allure of vapes to teenagers remains a concern due to vibrant marketing and easy access. The vape industry needs stricter regulation by authorities to protect young people. The recent fire incident in Glasgow highlighted the risks associated with unregulated vape shops. The sale of vapes to children must be stopped, with harsh penalties for offenders. Furthermore, greyhound racing in Scotland is set to end due to animal welfare concerns, although the sport had already declined significantly. For some, this marks the end of an era.

March 19, 2026 by filtermag.org

France’s national health agency ANSES has concluded that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking after reviewing a large body of scientific evidence. The analysis of numerous studies shows that, although not risk-free, e-cigarettes expose users to fewer toxic substances than traditional cigarettes. Researchers point out that potential risks—such as cardiovascular or respiratory effects—appear to be lower and are not always clearly established. The findings support a harm reduction approach, suggesting that switching to vaping may lower health risks for people who would otherwise continue smoking. At the same time, experts stress the importance of caution, especially to prevent uptake among young people and non-smokers.

March 19, 2026 by greekcitytimes.com

Greece is intensifying efforts to combat the illegal sale of tobacco and alcohol to minors through stricter enforcement measures. Authorities are introducing tougher penalties and increasing inspections to ensure retailers comply with age restrictions. The crackdown also includes new monitoring tools and closer cooperation between law enforcement and regulatory bodies. Officials emphasize that reducing youth access to nicotine and alcohol is a key priority for improving public health outcomes. Overall, the initiative reflects a stronger, more proactive approach to preventing underage consumption and addiction.

March 19, 2026 by euronews.com

Greece has introduced a new digital system to verify the age of customers purchasing tobacco and alcohol, aiming to better enforce existing laws banning sales to minors. The initiative is part of a broader government effort to close loopholes that previously allowed retailers to avoid responsibility when selling to underage individuals. The system is integrated into the country’s digital infrastructure and is inspired by EU standards for online age verification, making it one of the first real-world implementations of this approach in Europe. Authorities say it will simplify inspections and make it easier to impose fines on those who break the law. Overall, the move reflects a growing trend of using digital tools to strengthen public health policies and protect minors.

March 18, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu

A study by Fraunhofer Institute reveals that almost half of vapes in Europe stem from irregular sources, amounting to a €6.6 billion market. The research, tracking supply chains and customs data, unveils links to illegal transactions. China dominates as the main supplier, particularly from Shenzhen, with 90% of products coming from there. Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium serve as key distribution centers. Enforcement faces challenges due to increasing parcel volumes. These irregular trades cause tax losses and pressure legitimate retailers, with bans likely to boost illicit market growth. Recommendations include digital tracking systems and enhanced cooperation to combat the issue.

March 18, 2026 by gfn.tv

In this episode of GFN News, Joanna Junak speaks with Will Godfrey of Filter about Germany’s proposed regulation to ban flavoured e-liquids containing cooling agents. The draft measure would prohibit menthol and other “iced” vape products that rely on cooling additives. Supporters of the proposal, including Germany’s Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, argue that cooling effects may make vaping easier to inhale and potentially increase nicotine intake - particularly among young and inexperienced users.