Update on Philip Morris-funded Foundation renaming to Global Initiative to Combat Smoking

WHO is warning Member States and the public health community about the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World, which is now known as Global Action to End Smoking. This organization, funded by tobacco company Philip Morris, was previously advised against partnering with by WHO in 2017 due to concerns about its ties to the tobacco industry.

Despite changing its name, WHO continues to maintain its stance against partnering with Global Action to End Smoking. The organization strongly recommends that governments and the public health community also avoid working with this group. The concerns include the fact that the organization is funded by Philip Morris International and supports the tobacco industry’s efforts to mislead the public about the risks of tobacco and nicotine products.

Of particular concern to WHO is the potential targeting of children and young people by Global Action to End Smoking, which could lead to a new generation of tobacco and nicotine users. WHO is urging governments and the public health community to prioritize genuine and independent public health initiatives to combat tobacco and nicotine use, rather than aligning with organizations tied to the tobacco industry. It is important to remain vigilant in the fight against tobacco and nicotine use.