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December 01, 2025 by gfn.tv

In this exclusive GFN News interview, Joanna Junak speaks with Nancy Loucas, CAPHRA Executive Coordinator, about the fallout from COP11 in Geneva and the controversial Dirty Ashtray Award given to New Zealand.

November 27, 2025 by daily-pouch.com

Before the WHO’s FCTC COP11 meeting, the UK’s public health minister promised to support tobacco harm reduction, but the UK delegation ultimately did not follow through. During the opening plenary, the UK expressed interest in forward-looking measures, even though these threatened vaping and other reduced-risk products. The delegation emphasized the dangers of tobacco but highlighted policies under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill that could hinder safer nicotine alternatives. Rather than advocating for harm reduction, the statement focused on concerns about new nicotine products. Overall, the UK appeared more interested in aligning with the WHO and promoting a generational tobacco ban than in supporting smokers seeking safer options.

November 27, 2025 by filtermag.org

The World Health Organization's COP11 on tobacco control ended, criticizing harm reduction measures as industry tactics. New Zealand's success in reducing smoking rates with THR was scorned, earning them the "Dirty Ashtray" award. Mexico, despite high smoking rates, was celebrated for banning vapes. COP11 excluded THR advocates and was funded by anti-THR entities. Calls for transparency and evidence-based regulations were made. The agenda items impacting THR were deferred to COP12 in 2027. Despite some positive agreements on tobacco control funding, COP11 mainly resulted in a stalemate for THR advocates, while bans on safer alternatives were pushed. Policymaking at COP11 was seen as ineffective in tackling smoking-related harm.

November 26, 2025 by gfn.tv

This GFN Voices 2025 episode brings together advocates, scientists and campaigners from around the world to share why the Global Forum on Nicotine matters, how tobacco harm reduction is being misunderstood, and why honest communication, access to safer products and open debate are essential for helping people move away from smoking.

November 26, 2025 by nst.com.my

The WHO warns that sleek disposable e-cigarettes and candy-flavored nicotine pouches are targeting youth, driving a new wave of nicotine addiction. WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus highlighted schools as a frontline where companies recruit young users. Nearly 15 million teens worldwide now use e-cigarettes. While global tobacco use among youth has declined by a third over 20 years, tobacco companies are creating new products to attract customers, and over eight million people still die annually from tobacco-related diseases.

November 26, 2025 by snusforumet.se

Following the WHO COP11 meetings, discussions around banning nicotine pouches amid failed agreements highlight issues within tobacco regulation. Patrik Strömer criticizes the FCTC's focus on ideology over successful harm reduction tactics like New Zealand's, while Sweden's progress is understated. COP11's recognition of countries without significant harm reduction success raises concerns about future tobacco policies. Strömer expresses doubts about COP12's efficacy in curbing smoking rates, citing disconnect between FCTC's discussions and practical outcomes. Although leaving room for EU regulatory updates, bans on nicotine pouches in UN facilities lack substantial impact. Strömer questions the effectiveness of the FCTC, emphasizing the need for tangible results in reducing smoking worldwide.

November 26, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com

A bipartisan coalition of 25 attorneys general, led by California AG Rob Bonta and New York City, urged Shopify Inc. to address the sale of illegal tobacco products on its platform, highlighting concerns over e-cigarettes. Despite some enforcement efforts, sellers persist. The coalition proposed a meeting to enhance Shopify's response. An exhibit showed 29 unlawful e-cigarette sites on Shopify and over 200 more selling illegal tobacco products. California's Department of Justice noted previous collaboration with Shopify on enforcement. AG Bonta has a history of legal action against sellers, targeting flavored disposable e-cigarette companies. Additional AGs from various states and Puerto Rico support the coalition's efforts.

November 26, 2025 by consumeraffairs.com

Over 28 illegal e-cigarette websites and 200 selling illegal tobacco products are on Shopify. Federal law bans e-cigarette sales to under-21s and requires FDA approval. Attorneys general demand Shopify stop violations. Parents should monitor teens' online activity, educate on risks, and use parental controls. Nationwide actions target e-commerce platforms avoiding regulations. Vigilance is crucial to combat illegal vaping sales and protect youth.

November 25, 2025 by filtermag.org

The AATOD conference focused on evolving opioid treatment, acknowledging the need for change post-pandemic. Senator Norcross proposed altering methadone clinic regulations, but opposition persists. Clinics resist giving more take-home medication to maintain control and profits. SAMHSA's updated rules aim to increase patient retention and engagement, aligning with harm reduction principles. However, clinic systems' rigid structure challenges full harm reduction integration, emphasizing surveillance over patient autonomy. The DEA's role in clinics is questioned as the sector shifts towards patient-centered care. Despite incremental progress, the methadone industry remains resistant to fundamental changes. Efforts to align clinics with harm reduction principles face significant obstacles within the current treatment model.

November 25, 2025 by worldvapersalliance.com

The WHO held COP11, its tobacco control conference, facing pushback against strict measures targeting vaping and nicotine products. Countries like New Zealand, Albania, and Serbia advocated for harm reduction over prohibition, leading to softened regulations. The EU's internal conflict was exposed when some nations resisted global bans. COP11 ended with voluntary guidelines, signaling a rejection of the top-down model. The FCTC Secretariat postponed decisions to COP12. Despite some progress in harm reduction advocacy, transparency and consumer inclusion issues persist. Demands for evidence-based policies continue amidst a call for WHO accountability and EU negotiations scrutiny. Accelerating momentum for change is crucial at this juncture.