GFN Insights #18 | SAVING LIVES AGAINST ALL ODDS | Harm Reduction in the Middle East and Africa
May 26, 2026 by gfn.tv
GFN Insights #18 | SAVING LIVES AGAINST ALL ODDS | Harm Reduction in the Middle East and Africa
Harm reduction efforts in the Middle East and Africa face distinct challenges shaped by restrictive regulation, limited public awareness, and uneven access to safer nicotine alternatives. Advocates argue that in regions where smoking rates remain high, excluding tobacco harm reduction from public health strategies may slow progress in reducing smoking-related disease and mortality. The discussion highlights the importance of local evidence, consumer voices, and culturally relevant risk communication in shaping more effective nicotine policy. It also raises broader questions about whether global tobacco control frameworks adequately reflect the needs and realities of countries outside Europe and North America.
