The Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights (PCCR) and the Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) on Wednesday agreed to strengthen tobacco control measures to protect children from tobacco and emerging nicotine products, including vaping and nicotine pouches, through tighter regulations, greater public awareness and stronger enforcement.
Parliamentary caucus seeks stronger tobacco curbs to protect children
ISLAMABAD, Aug 12 (APP):The Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights (PCCR) and the Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) on Wednesday agreed to strengthen tobacco control measures to protect children from tobacco and emerging nicotine products, including vaping and nicotine pouches, through tighter regulations, greater public awareness and stronger enforcement.
A meeting between the PCCR, National Assembly of Pakistan, and SPARC was held at the Parliament House and chaired by Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting and Federal Coordinator, PCCR, Danyal Chaudhary, MNA.
Mr Chaudhary stressed the need for coordinated efforts to protect children from tobacco and emerging nicotine products. He also underscored the importance of raising awareness among children, parents and teachers about the health risks associated with tobacco and nicotine use.
The meeting discussed strengthening health warnings, regulating the sale and display of tobacco products around educational institutions, increasing tobacco taxation, curbing tobacco smuggling and improving enforcement of existing regulations.
Participants also called for child focused awareness campaigns and stronger public messaging to highlight the health risks associated with tobacco use and nicotine addiction.
The two sides agreed to collaborate on awareness and parliamentary engagement initiatives. SPARC will share relevant awareness materials and regional comparative analysis on graphical health warnings with members of parliament.
A dedicated briefing session for parliamentarians will also be organised to enhance their understanding of tobacco control measures and strengthen legislative and oversight efforts.
The participants further agreed to explore engagement with the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) for child focused awareness content and coordinate with relevant district authorities for effective implementation of tobacco control measures.
The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of the PCCR and SPARC to strengthening tobacco control efforts and protecting children from tobacco and nicotine addiction.
