EU Parliament Endorses Vaping to Help Quit Smoking

The European Parliament, in full assembly, adopted a report recognizing the role of vaping in aiding smoking cessation. This comprehensive adoption by the Parliament marks a pivotal moment in the fight against smoking-related illnesses, according to an emailed World Vaper’s Alliance release.

The report, a part of the Parliament’s broader initiative on non-communicable diseases, acknowledges vaping as an effective method for smoking cessation and may also set a new direction for health policies within the EU.

The move follows the EU’s Subcommittee on Public Health (SANT) endorsement on Nov. 7. However, the initial recommendation by the SANT to limit vaping in certain public areas remains a point of contention.

Michael Landl, director of the WVA, said the full adoption of the report by the Parliament is a step forward and underscores a significant shift in recognizing vaping’s positive impact on public health.

“We now call on the European Commission to align with this perspective, as it represents the collective voice and decision of the Parliament, the direct representatives of EU citizens,” he said. “Listening to this voice is not just a matter of policy but of democratic responsibility.

“While we welcome the Parliament’s endorsement, the proposed restrictions on vaping in public spaces are concerning. Such measures could inadvertently hinder smokers’ transition to a less harmful alternative.”