Moving Toward A Smoke-Free Greece

It seems like Greece is finally moving toward a smoke-free future. Earlier this week, the Ministry of Health officially presented the National Action Plan Against Smoking.

During the presentation, the prime minister stated: "The smoking ban is a bold initiative to protect public health. A symbolic move to modernise and refine our daily lives. But it is also an exercise in mutual respect that ultimately strengthens social cohesion."

The Greek administration sympathizes with the 84% of citizens who consider the failure to implement anti-smoking laws a "cultural degradation" and the 76% who declare themselves outraged.

"We are responding to this displeasure with a national strategy and a strict ban on smoking in public spaces, in private work areas, in spaces where there are children, in cars where children are passengers...but also with a good and extremely inventive information and awareness campaign. Our aim is not to divide but an alliance for health. To highlight the individual responsibility that will lead to collective harmony." he said.

Health Unites us: Alliance For A Better Life Without Smoking

The anti-smoking campaign, whose central message is "Health unites us: Alliance for a better life without smoking" marks the start of a nationwide effort, which is also back by strict fines.

The campaign focuses on 4 lines of action

1. Creating a non-smoking culture that emphasizes on prevention.
2. Respect for non-smokers.
3. Care for smokers by increasing medical support for stopping smoking.
4. Evaluating new tobacco products and regulating their circulation on the market.
   
   

Finally, an anti-smoking g information and support hotline has come into operation since Tuesday. By calling 1142, citizens can learn more about the anti-smoking law and what it entails, get help to quit smoking, and report any anti-smoking law violations.


To read more about the anti-smoking campaign, please visit: AMNA