By: The Trek News Desk
In a landmark move, the Maldives has become the first country in the world to implement a generational smoking ban, making it illegal for anyone born after January 1, 2007, to buy, sell, or smoke tobacco.
The ban officially took effect on Saturday, marking what the country’s Ministry of Health described as “a historic milestone in building a tobacco-free generation and protecting public health.”
Aiming for a Smoke-Free Generation
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco use kills over 7 million people each year worldwide. A 2021 national survey in the Maldives found that about 25% of adults aged 15 to 69 used tobacco, while the rate among teenagers (13–15 years old) was nearly double.
Government officials say the new ban aims to protect young citizens from addiction and promote a healthier, smoke-free society across the island nation.
Other Countries Tried – But Didn’t Follow Through
The Maldives’ move comes after similar efforts in other countries failed to take effect.
In New Zealand, a 2022 law aimed to ban the sales of tobacco to anyone born after January 1, 2009. However, the law was repealed in 2024 before implementation, reportedly to fund tax cuts, a decision that angered health experts and anti-tobacco organizations.
The United Kingdom is now debating a comparable bill that would outlaw tobacco sales for those born after 2009. In an open letter, several top British health leaders urged Parliament to pass the legislation, warning that over 120,000 young adults had started smoking in the past six months alone.
Tough Stance on Vaping Too
The Maldivian government isn’t stopping at cigarettes. In late 2024, it imposed a complete ban on e-cigarettes and vaping, regardless of age. The regulation prohibits the import, manufacture, sale, or use of all vaping devices across the country.
Authorities are also planning to open anti-smoking clinics nationwide, providing medication and counselling to help citizens quit tobacco.
Cash Rewards for Smoke-Free Islands
In a creative public health initiative, the Maldivian President recently proposed a cash reward program for islands that become completely smoke-free. Under the plan, communities where residents voluntarily give up smoking will receive financial incentives from the government.
A Global Example in Public Health
Experts call the Maldives’ move a trailblazing public health milestone, one that could inspire nations worldwide.
“If other countries adopt similar generational bans, we could prevent millions of deaths in the decades to come,” said one health policy researcher.
Source: News Agencies
