Political hurdles to implementing tobacco control policies: the case of the smoke-free generation policy in Belgium.

Abstract

Objectives: The smoke-free generation (SFG) movement aims to prevent tobacco use among future generations through enhanced tobacco control policies. Political factors are critical levers for effective implementation but remain poorly understood. This study analyses political support for SFG advocacy among political parties. This paper outlines political parties' positions on SFG policies and identifies the political narratives influencing tobacco control policy progress.

Method: Ahead of the June 2024 Belgian election, a questionnaire was distributed to political parties (n=10), requesting their stance on 15 tobacco control policies and the rationale behind their responses. Factorial correspondence analysis was used to identify primary controversies, while thematic analysis was employed to uncover the main narratives.

Results: The SFG initiative represents a political controversy. Although most parties endorse preventive measures to achieve an SFG, there is insufficient support for the most impactful regulatory policies. In particular, major parties across the ideological spectrum prioritise the short-term economic interests of adults who smoke over potential risks to young people. Narratives promoted by key political parties indicate a divergence from the core belief underlying the SFG movement, and protecting children is not consistently prioritised.

Conclusion: There is a notable lack of commitment among political parties, both on the left and right, towards endorsing SFG advocacy, indicating weak adherence to the core values of the SFG movement.