Tobacco Control Legislation

The recent conclusion of the negotiations of the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) presents a strong global complement to national and local legislative action for tobacco control. Many developed and developing countries have also continually called for WHO to produce tools for the development of legislation in Member States. This guide aims to meet such an important requirement. Beginning with an explanation of the legal terms and concepts, this handbook guides the reader through each stage of the legislative process, from the first steps of building a foundation of political support, to the enforcement and evaluation of legislation after it comes into force. It describes the strategic choices each country must make in approaching legislation, and offers practical suggestions for developing legislative text, working with lawmakers to win the proposa̕ls adoption, and overcoming objections and obstacles. It also provides selected case studies of various national laws as well as an introductory discussion of international legal instruments pertaining to tobacco control.