On May 30, 2025, French Health Minister Catherine Vautrin announced a significant public health initiative: a smoking ban in outdoor spaces where children are present, set to take effect on July 1. Speaking to the French newspaper Ouest France, she emphasized the importance of creating a “smoke-free generation,” declaring that the ban is essential for protecting children’s health. The initiative is part of France’s broader National Tobacco Control Programme, originally introduced in November 2023. Violating the ban could result in a €135 fine, and it will eliminate smoking in various public venues, including parks, gardens, beaches, and areas surrounding schools, while maintaining a focus on environments frequented by children.
The ban is not comprehensive; it will not extend to outdoor terraces of cafes and bars at this time. However, Vautrin indicated that future expansions of the ban to include these areas may be considered, reflecting a potential shift in social attitudes towards public smoking. While electronic cigarettes will still be permitted in these designated areas, the government aims to address their use by proposing a reduction in permitted nicotine levels and the available flavor varieties by mid-2026. The specifics of the ban are still being finalized in consultation with France’s Council of State, the advisory body that guides government legislation.
Tobacco-related health issues remain a top concern for the French government, as statistics indicate that smoking causes approximately 75,000 deaths annually in France. In response to this public health crisis, the 2023 National Tobacco Control Programme outlined an ambitious set of 26 measures designed to combat smoking-related complications. These included price increases for tobacco products, the introduction of plain packaging, and restrictive regulations on vaping products, all aimed at curbing the prevalence of smoking in society.
Public support for the ban appears robust, with a survey conducted by the NGO “La Ligue contre le cancer” revealing that nearly 80% of respondents favored the smoking restrictions in areas where children are present. Additionally, 83% supported similar measures for electronic cigarettes, indicating a growing consensus on the necessity of regulating tobacco and its alternatives for the sake of public health. This evolving public opinion reflects a broader recognition of the dangers associated with smoking and an understanding of the indirect risks posed to children in shared public spaces.
The announcement of the smoking ban in France follows similar measures taken by the Spanish government, which revealed plans to prohibit smoking in numerous locations as well, including outdoor restaurant terraces, university campuses, vehicles used for work, and outdoor sporting events. This parallel action highlights a regional trend in public health policy aimed at reducing smoking prevalence and protecting non-smokers, particularly vulnerable populations like children.
In conclusion, the new smoking ban represents a critical step in France’s ongoing battle against tobacco-related health issues. By focusing on protecting children and fostering a smoke-free generation, the government is taking decisive action within the framework of its National Tobacco Control Programme. The substantial public support for these measures signifies a shifting cultural attitude towards smoking and emphasizes the importance of creating a healthier future for upcoming generations.
