France to Enact Sweeping Outdoor Smoking Ban

France to Ban Smoking in Most Outdoor Public Places Starting July 1st France is set to implement a sweeping ban on smoking in the majority of outdoor public areas starting July 1st, 2025. This significant public health initiative aims to protect young people from the dangers of tobacco. The ban will encompass beaches, parks, bus shelters, and areas outside schools, aligning with similar measures adopted across Europe, including the UK, which introduced a similar ban last year. While smoking rates in France have reached historic lows, with recent reports showing that just under a quarter of French adults smoke daily (the lowest since record-keeping began in the late 1990s), the Health Ministry remains concerned. They cite the significant health impact, estimating that smoking causes around 200 deaths per day in France. Alexandre Cobigo, from the French League Against Cancer, emphasizes the importance of smoke-free public spaces, stating, “We know by scientific evidence that those kind of smoke-free places have a major impact on initiation, especially young initiation.” The ban, however, will not apply to outdoor cafe terraces or electronic cigarettes. This comprehensive approach balances the goal of protecting public health with the realities of daily life and existing social norms. The initiative underscores France's ongoing commitment to reducing the harm caused by tobacco use and promoting healthier lifestyles for its citizens.