Maldives Enforces World’s First Generational Smoking Ban | 06 Nov 2025

Why in News?

The Maldives has officially become the first country in the world to enforce a generational ban on smoking, prohibiting anyone born on or after 1st January 2007 from ever purchasing, possessing, or using tobacco products.

Key Points

  • The generational Ban:
    • Applies to all tobacco forms, including cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco.
    • Retailers must verify age before sale to prevent violations.
    • Aims to phase out tobacco use within one generation.
    • The Maldives already has a complete ban on vaping and e-cigarettes, regardless of age.
  • New Zealand was the first to enact such law (born after 1st January, 2009), but they repealed it in 2023 before it took effect.
  • Health Perspective:
    • Tobacco kills nearly 7 million people annually (WHO). 
    • The move aligns with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) to curb youth initiation and protect future generations.

WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)

  • It is the world’s first global public health treaty. Over 180 parties (including India) have ratified the convention. It was adopted in 2003 and enforced in 2005.
  • Objective: To protect present and future generations from the devastating health, social, environmental, and economic consequences of tobacco consumption and exposure to tobacco smoke.
  • Key Provisions:
    • Ban on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship.
    • Health warnings covering at least 30–50% of packaging.
    • Measures to reduce tobacco demand and supply, including taxation and public smoking bans.
    • Regulation of illicit trade and protection from industry interference in policy-making.