Why the World Health Organization’s anti-nicotine policy could keep millions smoking
December 02, 2025 by reason.org
Why the World Health Organization’s anti-nicotine policy could keep millions smoking
The WHO urges strict regulation and even bans on e-cigarettes and other nicotine alternatives like heated tobacco. Despite successful harm reduction in countries like the UK, the WHO promotes quit helplines and nicotine replacement therapies, which have lower success rates and are inaccessible in low-income areas. The organization's stance goes against evidence that vaping is safer, with countries like the US, UK, and Canada endorsing it. The WHO's strategy risks hindering smokers from switching to safer options, leading to more smoking-related deaths and illnesses. Overlooking the success of harm reduction methods, the WHO's recommendations may perpetuate smoking-related health issues globally.
