Bangladesh participates at Global Tobacco Control Conference in Dublin

Bangladesh is actively participating in the World Conference on Tobacco Control 2025, held in Dublin, Ireland from June 23 to 25, amid growing global health challenges and renewed efforts to curb tobacco use worldwide.

The conference, attended by representatives from governments, civil society, and public health organizations across the globe, comes at a critical time. The withdrawal of powerful nations like the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), coupled with declining global health investments, has put pressure on public health systems. Despite these setbacks, the global tobacco control movement remains one of the most effective, cost-efficient strategies to safeguard public health.

Bangladesh’s participation underscores the country's commitment to strengthening tobacco control policies. Delegates are using the platform to present the nation's progress, ongoing challenges, and future plans to reduce tobacco use.

Notably, Bangladesh has made measurable gains in this area. According to national data, adult smoking rates dropped from 43.3% in 2009 to 35.3% in 2017. Globally, tobacco use among adults has declined from 22.7% in 2007 to 17.3% in 2021, as a result of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

However, experts caution that more needs to be done. Bangladesh still faces significant gaps, particularly in banning tobacco advertising, sponsorship, and promotional incentives. To address these issues, the Ministry of Health has proposed key amendments to the country’s Tobacco Control Act, which, if passed, would bring national legislation in line with international standards.

Civil society organizations such as Nari Maitri, Pragya, and Dhaka Ahsania Mission have played a vital role in advocating for these changes. They continue to campaign for evidence-based public awareness initiatives and legal reform.

The WHO is also set to release the 'Global Tobacco Epidemic Report 2025' during the conference. The report will assess countries' progress in implementing smoke-free laws, regulating e-cigarettes, applying graphic health warnings, and raising taxes on tobacco products. The Bloomberg Philanthropies Global Tobacco Control Awards will also recognize exemplary policies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

A representative from Bangladesh Women's Alliance is also attending the event, adding a gender-focused perspective to the country’s tobacco control agenda.

The conference offers Bangladesh a crucial opportunity to accelerate its anti-tobacco movement. With strong political will, civil society engagement, and alignment with global best practices, the country is positioning itself to confront industry influence and move closer to a tobacco-free future.