Need for systematic implementation of Tobacco control norm: FCA

The Framework Convention Alliance (FCA) -- an association of 500 civil societies in 100 countries promoting tobacco control policies -- on Friday urged over 180 member-countries of Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) to systematically and strategically implement the Tobacco control norms set by the convention till now.

FCA has also stated that there is a need for an mechanism to routinely review the needs of the parties while implementing the norms.

India is hosting the CoP7 WHO FCTC from November 7 to 12 which is likely to see the participation of over 180 countries. The objectives of the convention will be to formulate stringent norms and tobacco control policies.

"After 10 years, FCTC Parties have developed a detailed consensus on the measures needed to address the global tobacco epidemic. Starting next week, parties must shift their focus to ensuring that the treaty is as effective as possible on the ground," said Francis Thompson, Executive Director of FCA, during a event in the national capital.

Stating that there is a resource gap while implementation of the tobacco control norms, Thompson said: "We just don't have enough money and technical resources going into tobacco control. The official development agencies have lagged very far behind."

"The Convention of Parties, as the specialised body that deals with the FCTC, must make the case for much more energetic implementation, with the necessary political will, technical assistance and resources to make this global target a reality," said Thompson.

--IANS

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