Slovenia’s public health advocates recognized for commitment to tobacco control

Slovenia's National Institute of Public Health (NIPH) and its Anti-Tobacco Working Group (ATWG) have been nominated for a WHO World No Tobacco Day award for their efforts and commitment to tobacco control during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

NIPH is the leading public health organization in Slovenia working in the field of tobacco control. Its ATWG closely collaborates with national institutions and nongovernmental organizations to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco and advocate for stronger tobacco regulation.

Keeping the focus on tobacco control

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when almost all available resources were dedicated to mitigating its health and economic impacts, ATWG ensured the continued availability of accessible smoking cessation programs for those wanting to quit, including the national Quitline. After the pandemic, NIPH experts prepared an array of publications, including a report on tobacco-related deaths in Slovenia between 1997 and 2019, which shows a steady 2.5% average annual decrease in the number of premature deaths attributable to tobacco.

ATWG has been instrumental in the successful defence of existing tobacco control measures in Slovenia, such as the timely introduction of plain packaging. The dedication and passion of its members helped preserve tobacco control efforts, keeping them at the forefront of the country's priorities.

A long legislative tradition

27 years have passed since the adoption of Slovenia's first tobacco control law, which, at the time, was one of the most advanced in Europe. Regulations have since been tightened several times.

In 2005, Slovenia became party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which guided further implementation of evidence-based measures. Strong leadership and collaboration among many stakeholders, including civil society and media, resulted in the adoption of a comprehensive tobacco control law in 2017, and ATWG members played a significant role in the process. Since the adoption of the new law, the number of adult smokers has declined overall, with significant reductions seen among those aged 25-34.

Slovenian anti-tobacco activists are focusing on the strategy 'For a Tobacco-free Slovenia 2020-2030', a comprehensive plan that aims to significantly reduce the rate of smoking in the country. This involves preventing children and young adults from starting to use tobacco products, reducing the number of pregnant women who smoke, and encouraging people of all ages to quit smoking. The strategy aims to make Slovenia a tobacco-free society by 2040 and its success will depend on the cooperation of the government, civil society, local stakeholders, health care providers, and the public in implementing measures.

An example to follow

Slovenia's efforts in tobacco control have led to significant strides in reducing smoking rates, preventing second-hand smoke exposure, and promoting a healthier lifestyle. These achievements were possible due to the strong leadership and collaborative efforts of the government, civil society, health care professionals and other stakeholders. The success of Slovenia's tobacco control initiatives is proof that concerted efforts can lead to positive outcomes and inspire change.

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