France bans smoking in all public places where children are present

The French government has decided to ban smoking in all places where children are present. This includes beaches, parks, bus stops, libraries, sports complexes, and school surroundings. From July 1, anyone caught smoking in these areas will face a fine of 135 euros.

"Wherever children are, tobacco becomes taboo," said Health Minister Catherine Vautrin in an interview with the regional newspaper Ouest France. "The rights of smokers end where children's rights to clean air begin."

The measure is driven by health concerns. Each year, 75,000 French citizens die from smoking-related diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions—200 deaths per day. Research shows that one in ten deaths in France is directly or indirectly linked to smoking.

The government aims to reduce this number. Smoking also incurs significant costs: 156 billion euros annually for healthcare, prevention measures, and lost productivity.

France has already seen a decline in smoking rates. Currently, 23% of the population smokes daily—a historic low. Among 17-year-olds, only 16% smoke, down from 25% in 2017. The government's goal is to raise a generation by 2032 that does not smoke.

The new ban also aims to reduce secondhand smoke exposure for children and discourage minors from taking up smoking. "Children must be protected, as 40% of minors are involuntary passive smokers," said pulmonologist Sébastien Couraud.

The measure enjoys broad public support, with 60-80% of French citizens favoring a nationwide smoking ban in public spaces. Since 2007, smoking has been banned in hospitality venues and workplaces, and around 1,600 municipalities have voluntarily prohibited smoking in places like beaches and ski slopes.

The new ban does not apply to e-cigarettes, but the government plans future restrictions on vaping, including reducing nicotine content, limiting flavors, and introducing plain packaging.