France to impose ban on smoking in parks, beaches, and near schools

France to impose ban on smoking in parks, beaches, and near schools
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France is intensifying its fight against smoking with a new public health decree banning smoking in all parks, sports venues, beaches, bus stops, school perimeters, and public areas where children gather, Arab News reported. Published Saturday, the ban aims to reduce exposure to tobacco smoke and denormalize smoking, particularly among young people.

Smoking has long been ingrained in French culture, glamorized in cinema and seen as a symbol of freedom. However, despite previous bans on smoking in restaurants, bars, and public buildings since 2007-2008 and high cigarette taxes pushing prices above 12 euros per pack, over 30% of French adults continue to smoke daily. Alarmingly, 15% of 17-year-olds also smoke, prompting health authorities to act.

Health Minister Catherine Vautrin highlighted the toll of tobacco-related illnesses, which cause about 75,000 deaths annually in France—more than 200 daily. The government’s new restrictions aim to protect public health by limiting smoking in places frequented by children and the public.

Public reactions are mixed. Some welcome the ban for protecting children, while others find it overly restrictive, especially in outdoor spaces. The ban takes effect July 1, with further details on specific perimeters forthcoming. Notably, electronic cigarettes are exempt.

France’s move follows similar or stricter measures in other European countries like Britain, Sweden, and Spain, which have expanded smoking bans to more public and outdoor areas.