The 20-year anniversary of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) was the theme of the special side event during a UN High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health held in New York this week.
Organized by Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and the Global Alliance for Tobacco Control (GATC) in collaboration with the Secretariat of the WHO FCTC and the NCD Alliance, the event focused on the WHO FCTC as a blueprint for multilateral cooperation and an effective tool in the fight against non-communicable diseases. Speakers shared insights into how lessons from tobacco control can inform and accelerate broader NCD prevention strategies worldwide.
"The WHO FCTC is a powerful example of what is possible when the global community unites in combatting the global tobacco epidemic" said Andrew Black, Team Lead, Direct Assistance to Parties, Secretariat of the WHO FCTC.
"As we look ahead to COP11 being held in Geneva this year, this anniversary is a crucial moment for renewed commitment to global health treaties and to using this success story to inspire the next generation of NCD action and to accelerate progress on the SDGs.”
The event featured a series of expert presentations and a lively Q&A session from speakers. Mr Black reflected on the treaty's journey over the past two decades, its role as an accelerator for the Sustainable Development Goals and further noting its profound impact on reducing tobacco use and protecting millions of lives.
Representatives from the NCD Alliance, WHO, and Cancer Research UK highlighted the critical link between tobacco control and the broader NCD agenda. Speakers discussed how successful measures in line with the WHO FCTC, such as tobacco taxation, offer valuable lessons for tackling other risk factors for NCDs.
Alex Wright, Head of Global Policy & Programmes at Cancer Research UK, emphasised how the WHO FCTC has provided a valuable framework for civil society collaboration in tobacco control. Giving examples of grassroots work CRUK has funded, he reflected that such partnerships will be crucial in the years to come, if the NCD community is to build on the commitments of the 2025 Political Declaration.
The event concluded with a call to action from Leslie Rae Ferat, Executive Director, Global Alliance for Tobacco Control (GATC) who underscored the urgency of building on the WHO FCTC's success. The celebration reaffirmed the need for continued collaboration between governments, civil society, and international organizations to address NCDs and ensure a healthier future for all.
"Civil society has been central to the progress of the WHO FCTC, but with COP11 ahead and NCDs still driving the global health burden, much more remains to be done. Strong collaboration and sustainable funding are vital to ensure continued progress in tobacco control and NCD prevention," said Ms Rae Ferat.