Stories

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.

In response to comments by Olivér Várhelyi, Clive Bates co-signed an open letter addressed to Ursula von der Leyen, urging a more balanced approach to lower-risk nicotine products. In an interview with EU Perspectives, he emphasized that policymakers need to carefully weigh public health goals against unintended consequences. His main argument is that overly strict or misguided regulation could undermine harm reduction efforts and ultimately worsen outcomes instead of improving them.

Vaping has recently been associated with several negative news stories, including a fire near Glasgow Central Station and allegations of misconduct involving vape shop owners in Dudley. There are also reports from Kent linking vape sharing to meningitis cases, although this connection is considered unproven. Experts suggest that the Glasgow fire was more likely caused by faulty wiring rather than e-cigarettes. While some issues, such as the exploitation of minors and underage vape sales, are serious and illegal, they are not caused by vaping itself. The main problem appears to be weak enforcement of existing laws related to tax evasion, counterfeit products, and illegal sales.

I discuss Australia's approach to e-cigarettes, which essentially limits them to prescription-only. I give 5 reasons why this is a problematic approach; how this overly restrictive regulation has created a violent illicit market; and compare how Australia has fared vs. New Zealand which embraces harm reduction with e-cigarettes.

Governments insist their nicotine policies are “evidence-based.” But a closer look reveals cherry-picked findings, flawed comparisons, and sensational claims that don’t withstand scrutiny. In this GFN interviews, independent tobacco scientist Dr. Ian Fearon explains how weak research and distorted interpretations shape global nicotine policy. From the misuse of correlation to media amplification of questionable studies, Fearon shows how flawed science fuels prohibitionist thinking—leaving smokers misinformed about safer alternatives that could reduce the harms of smoking.

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.

CAPHRA warns that New Zealand could repeat Australia’s illicit tobacco crisis if it relies too much on restrictions, high prices, and enforcement. The concern follows reports that tobacco smuggling in New Zealand is becoming more organised and large-scale. Officials fear this could lead to gang-related violence similar to what has been seen in Australia. CAPHRA’s Executive Coordinator, Nancy Loucas, emphasized that Australia should be seen as a warning rather than a model. She argued that limiting access to safer nicotine alternatives can push consumers toward illegal markets controlled by criminal networks.

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.

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.

The adult cigarette smoking rate in the U.S. has dropped to a historic low of 9.9%, marking a significant public health achievement. However, further progress is threatened by the dismantling of federal tobacco control infrastructure. Despite the decline, over 25 million U.S. adults still smoke, highlighting the need for continued implementation of proven strategies like tobacco tax increases and public education campaigns. Tobacco remains a major public health issue, with disparities in usage and associated harm across different groups. Sustaining tobacco control efforts, including the CDC's Office on Smoking and Health, is crucial to reducing smoking-related health and economic burdens nationally.