This is a statement delivered by the World Heart Federation at the 10th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the WHO FCTC in Panama.
Honourable Chair, Distinguished Delegates,
The World Heart Federation applauds the Parties for the progress made since 2021. Nevertheless, we note with concern that interference from the tobacco industry remains the primary obstacle to the implementation of the Framework Convention.
The tobacco industry has a long-standing history of systematic and deliberate interference in health and regulatory sciences. In recent years, it has sought to create unnecessary and harmful controversy in the minds of the public, healthcare professionals, and policymakers through unfounded claims, aggressive marketing strategies, and industry-funded research to promote its newer products.
As such, we urge all Parties and stakeholders to fully implement the Framework Convention, with a particular emphasis on Article 5.3, to safeguard public health from the commercial and vested interests of the industry.
Thank you.
