FCTC binding in Germany for 20 years

16.03.2025 20 years ago today, the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control became legally binding for Germany.

What is the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control?
The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) is the first intergovernmental health treaty negotiated under the auspices of the World Health Organisation. The aim of the convention was and is to protect people from the devastating health, social, environmental and economic consequences of tobacco consumption and passive smoking.

As of today, 183 contracting parties, covering more than 90% of the world’s population, have adopted the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control with binding force under international law. This makes it one of the most successful agreements in the history of the United Nations. Germany signed the FCTC in 2003, ratified it in 2004, and on 16 March 2005 it became legally binding for Germany.

Unfortunately, despite the FCTC’s self-imposed obligation under international law, Germany has largely ignored its obligations ever since. Instead, an epidemic is raging in Germany that kills 127,000 people every year. And this is not caused by a virus, but by the products and practices of the tobacco industry.
In a European comparison, Germany performs extremely poorly when it comes to restrictions on the tobacco industry. It is alarming how easily the tobacco lobby gains access to politics and prevents regulation.

This is what is needed, and Germany committed itself to this under international law 20 years ago:

Significantly higher tobacco taxes
Consistent protection of non-smokers
A comprehensive ban on advertising and sponsorship
Intensive educational campaigns
A protective wall against the tobacco lobby

Germany can and must no longer afford to make tobacco companies richer and the healthcare system poorer.
We call on the new federal government to finally – 20 (!) years late – fulfil the obligations of the FCTC.