The Maldives is deliberating the implementation of a groundbreaking generational ban on smoking and is engaging in consultations with leading international organisations as part of a holistic public health strategy, according to the Ministry of Health.
Under the guidance of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, the health ministry has initiated discussions with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), addressing the feasibility and implications of this ambitious proposal. The initiative forms a cornerstone of the president’s broader commitment to reducing tobacco consumption across the nation.
Central to this initiative is the concept of a "generational ban", which seeks to prevent future generations from taking up smoking. This would be achieved by prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to individuals born in or after a designated year. President Dr Muizzu first introduced the proposal during the "Rayyithunna Eku" podcast, articulating a vision for fostering a smoke-free generation.
The president has invited public participation in determining the most appropriate starting birth year for the proposed ban. Three options—2000, 2004, or 2007—were presented in a public announcement, accompanied by a poll to solicit citizen input. Under this policy, individuals born in or after the selected year would face a lifelong prohibition on purchasing or using tobacco products.
President Dr Muizzu has actively sought to engage the public on this critical issue, encouraging citizens to express their opinions and provide feedback. He has elaborated on the rationale for targeting younger demographics, highlighting that intervening at an earlier age—particularly among individuals aged 18 to 25—is more effective in preventing addiction. Addressing smoking before dependency develops is substantially less challenging than tackling established habits among older smokers, the president had said.
The health ministry has confirmed that consultations with key stakeholders remain underway. The WHO and UNICEF have contributed essential insights into the successful implementation of a generational ban, according to the ministry, focusing on enforcement mechanisms, public awareness campaigns, and support systems for current smokers attempting to quit.
In addition to this proposed initiative, President Dr Muizzu has appealed to current smokers to abandon tobacco use and urged businesses involved in its import and sale to reconsider their roles. This multi-pronged approach underscores the government's dedication to reducing tobacco consumption across all segments of society.