WHO’s harm reduction stance ‘contradicts science,’ says former agency director
October 17, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu
WHO’s harm reduction stance ‘contradicts science,’ says former agency director
A former WHO director criticizes the agency for neglecting science on tobacco harm reduction, impacting efforts to reduce smoking in the Asia-Pacific. Despite evidence supporting safer alternatives, WHO maintains an anti-harm reduction stance, citing vape and heated tobacco products as harmful. With the Asia-Pacific region having a high smoking rate, advocates push for evidence-driven coalitions to promote harm reduction. Ahead of COP11, calls intensify for WHO to prioritize harm reduction to aid smokers switching from cigarettes. The focus is on the need for factual communication, proportional regulation, and acknowledging vaping's role in reducing harm and helping smokers quit.
