Tobacco Control Playbook

Introduction

The Tobacco Control Playbook has been developed by collecting numerous evidence-based arguments from different thematic areas, reflecting the challenges that tobacco control leaders have faced while implementing various articles of the WHO FCTC and highlighting arguments they have developed in order to counter and succeed against the tobacco industry.This is the start of what is intended to be a living document, which will be updated and extended with further arguments and on the basis of feedback, as well as any developments in tobacco industry approaches. Everyone concerned with tobacco control is invited to contribute to its success by continuing to offer arguments and responses, and sharing their experiences through a dedicated website.

Tobacco Control Playbook

Introduction

Is tobacco industry a normal, legitimate industry?

Do longer, healthier lives have a positive overall effect on the economy?

Smoking is an adult behaviour and smokers are aware of the risks

Special issue: judicial statements from legal action involving the tobacco industry

Special issue: judicial statements from legal action involving the tobacco industry (cont.)

Does tobacco control harm tobacco growers?

Do tobacco companies take a responsible approach to education and information?

Is action on smoking the first step on a slippery slope?

Is there public support for tobacco control measures?

Does every tobacco control measure result in catastrophe?

Is smoking cessation beneficial for people with mental illness, and can they quit?

Is tobacco smoking a free and informed choice?

Comprehensive smokefree legislation is essential in protecting the health of others

Large pictorial pack warnings and plain packaging work

Smokefree legislation does not harm the hospitality industry

Tobacco marketing is targeted at children and young people

Tobacco taxation does not result in illicit trade

Tobacco taxation is one of the most cost-effective health interventions: government revenues increase while smoking rates fall

WTO law provides regulatory space for tobacco control measures

Governments can enact tobacco control public health measures without infringing the tobacco industry’s commercial rights