According to reports from Brussels media on January 15th, the World Vapers' Alliance (WVA) has recently released the latest results of the public consultation on the European Union Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). These results indicate a significant consensus among citizens, non-governmental organizations, and scientific institutions regarding the effectiveness of harm reduction products for smokers who wish to quit smoking.
According to public consultation data, 77% of respondents believe that harm reduction products are effective in helping smokers quit, with only 9% of EU citizens expressing opposition. Furthermore, as many as 82% of respondents disapprove the notion that new nicotine alternatives pose a risk to public health, with only 6% perceiving them as a threat.
Michael Landl, Director of the World Vapers' Alliance (WVA), expressed his concerns regarding the European Commission's current stance on harm reduction, stating that it not only lags behind but also blatantly disregards the perspective of consumers and scientific evidence. He emphasized the need for the Commission to acknowledge the fact that harm reduction products are not enemies, but rather crucial allies in the fight against smoking.
The successful harm reduction experiences in countries such as Sweden have become exemplars, highlighting the remarkable achievements of consumer-friendly harm reduction methods in reducing smoking rates. However, the European Commission's hostilities towards these approaches have been perplexing and have even had a negative impact on public health efforts.
Randall further pointed out: "Sweden's success story confirms the achievements that sensible harm reduction policies can bring. It is bewildering and even irresponsible that the European Commission continues to oppose these lifesaving products. The Commission should align its policies with clear evidence and public opinion, instead of clinging to outdated and ineffective approaches."
WVA urges the European Commission to reconsider its position and adopt a more evidence-based harm reduction approach, especially in the context of the upcoming Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) update. The recent consultation results should serve as a warning, emphasizing the urgency for policies that genuinely reflect public health and the needs of EU citizens.
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